This is a medium-large Andrena of the western Mediterranean. Females are variable, but are typically clad with dark brownish-orange thoracic hairs, have a dark-haired face and a black abdomen with scant brown hairs aong the rear margins of each tergite. The hindlegs hairs are dark orange. The colouration can be variable and individuals may be darker or lighter than the specimens in the photos below. Females possess a punctured clypeus with subtle vertical striations, which can be hard to see. The foveae widen slightly towards the top of the head and the propodeum has a small row of wrinkles along the upper margin. Identification can be tricky and is best attempted with a specimen, as it is very similar to Andrena vulcana. Males can only be identified by checking the genitalia.

Distribution: In Europe this species is limited to southern Spain and southern Portugal. It is also found in northern Morocco, northern Algeria and norhtern Tunisia.

Flight Period: Flies in a single generation between February and May.

Habitat: Poorly known, but I have observed it among dry calcareous grassland and scrub.

Flowers Visited: Little data exists, but I have observed a female visiting flowers of yellow brassicaceae.

Personal Records: I have observed this species once, around Torcal de Antequera in southern Spain. Here a female was visiting flowers of what I believe to be Hoary Mustard (Hirschfeldia incana).