A fairly large and robust Sphecodes, typically smaller than Sphecodes gibbus but larger than Sphecodes ephippius. Females have a rather squarish head shape and have punctures at the rear of the head. Males are medium-sized with a distinctive genitalia, but resemble a slightly smaller Sphecodes gibbus with a narrower, bulkier head shape. It is listed as Least Concern in Ireland.

Distribution in Ireland: Found from the southwest, through the midlands towards the northeast. It seems scarce along the south and southeast coast, as well as in the west and northwest. Can be locally common where found.

Flight period: Females emerge in mid-April, whilst new females and males emerge in July and may fly until late September.

Habitat: A variety of habitats are used including brownfield sites, woodland edges and clearings, heathland margins, farmland hedgerows, parks and sometimes gardens.

Flowers Visited: Dandelions, Wild Carrot, Ox-eye Daisy, Yarrow and other open-structured flowers.

Personal records: I have found this species at two brownfield sites around Armagh town in Co. Armagh and at Woodburn Forest, Co. Antrim.  At both sites I have observed females investigating sunny clay banks. The hosts are believed to be our two larger Lasioglossum species, L. calceatum and L. albipes. It may also use Halictus rubicundus here.