Despite its name, this Hylaeus is probably outnumbered in Ireland by its relative, Hylaeus confusus. The latter species is certainly the more widespread of the two. It is a distinctive species, being the only member of its genus which lacks yellow markings on the pronotal collar behind the head. It is also the most likely species to be found in gardens and parks.

Distribution in Ireland: Primarily an eastern species in Ireland, occurring from Wexford north to the Belfast area, Co. Antrim and as far west as Lough Ree, Co. Westmeath.

Flight Period: Univoltine, with records spanning mid-April – mid-August. It peaks notably in June and July.

Habitat: Found in a wide range of habitats but particularly parks, gardens, brownfield land, scrub and sunny woodland clearings and edges.

Flowers Visited: Both sexes are fond of umbellifers, particularly Angelica, Hogweed and Wild Carrot. Bramble is also heavily favoured in some areas. Also visits Yarrow, Creeping Thistle, Cat’s-ear, Mignonette and others.

Personal records: I have recorded this species in Lagan Meadows (Co. Antrim), Bru na Boinne (Co. Meath) and around Armagh City. Both sexes can be commonly seen on Angelica in the woodland edges and grassland of Lagan Meadows, whilst the sunny tracts of Bramble around Bru Na Boinne visitor centre can be worth searching for females in particular. I have encountered nesting females at several sites around Armagh city, using partially-rotted fenceposts or standing dead trees. These nests are usually single in occurrence, but several may be constructed in close proximity in suitable wooded structures.