This species is one of the smaller Nomada species in Ireland with females measuring around  7-10mm. It has a  black head and thorax whilst the abdomen is predominantly red with narrow black bands and small yellow spots along the sides. The antennae are banded which helps to separate it from other similar species. In contrast to other Nomads (like Nomada marshamella or Nomada leucophthalma which are commonly seen at their respective hosts’ nesting sites) it seems somewhat scarcer than its primary host (Andrena bicolor), although this may possibly reflect a lack of searching for this more inconspicuous species.

Distribution in Ireland: Widespread and seemingly locally common. Records span the entirety of the island but are concentrated in the eastern half.

Flight Period: Early April-late August.

Habitat: Varied, with brownfield sites, open woodland and coastal cliffs among them, reflecting the habitats used by its hosts.

Flowers visited: Dandelion, Colt’s-foot, Blackthorn, Black Medic, Willow and others.

Personal Records: I have recorded this species at several brownfield sites near Hillsborough (Co. Down), Armagh city (Co. Armagh) and at Lagan Meadows (Co. Antrim). I have also found it at woodland sites such as Bonny Glen (Co. Donegal) and Drumkeeragh Forest (Co. Down). It can most easily be seen flying around nesting sites of its primary host, Andrena bicolor. It reportedly also uses A. angustior and A. nigroaenea as hosts and possibly even A. lapponica, but the latter species remains unconfirmed.  Males are more difficult to find but can be seen in the vicinity of these nesting sites, often nectaring on nearby flowers.