This is one of the earliest solitary species to appear each year, typically emerging in mid March in many areas. It is also one of the few double-brooded Andrena and females can be seen until September. It is a medium-sized species of Andrena (9-12mm) and the female has a black face, reddish-brown thorax hairs and prominent orange hairs on the hindleg. It could be confused with Andrena angustior, but that species usually has pale facial hairs. It also has similar colouration to Andrena clarkella, but is noticeably smaller. Males are smaller than females with dark facial hair and dark brown thoracic hairs. They also lack the conspicuous orange hindlegs. It is a common species and is listed as Least Concern.

Distribution in Ireland: Widespread and common in Ireland, but there is a scarcity of records from the midlands, western and northwestern areas which is likely a result of under-recording.

Flight period: Double-brooded from March-September, peaking in April and again in July.

Habitat: Can be found in a wide range of sites including deciduous woodland edges and clearings, heathland, bogland margins, brownfield land, scrub, coastal dunes, parks and gardens.

Flowers visited: Dandelions are favoured by the spring brood, but it can be seen on a wide range of other flowers such as Primrose, Wintercress and willow catkins. The summer brood may visit brambles, Hogweed, Ox-eye Daisy and thistles.

Personal records: I have recorded this species widely in the greater Belfast and Hillsborough areas (Cos. Antrim and Down), Killard Point, Kilkeel (both Co. Down), Milford and Armagh City (Co. Armagh), Dungannon (Co. Tyrone), Dunfanaghy and Bonny Glen (both Co. Donegal). The females and are particularly conspicuous in spring when they can be seen foraging on dandelions, particularly as they are often the first solitary bees to emerge.  Nesting usually occurs singly although loose aggregations can also be found. Bare soils at the base of trees and south-facing banks (particularly clay) are favoured for nesting. It is the primary host of the cleptoparasitic Nomada fabriciana.