Well named, this species can measure as little as 5mm and can be difficult to spot. It has a predominantly black head and thorax with a reddish abdomen, usually with small flecks of yellow on the sides. The reddish markings on the face and thorax on the female combined with the size of both sexes can separate it from other similar nomad bees. It uses several of the Mini-miners (Micrandrena) as hosts. In my limited experience they are restless and wary, hence my rather poor photos.

Distribution in Ireland: Widespread, but most records are concentrated in Leinster. It is probably relatively common but small size and lack of dedicated recording means it is likely overlooked.

Flight Period: April-August.

Habitat: A wide variety of habitats including woodland edges, brownfield sites, heath, upland bog, scrub and farmland verges.

Flowers visited: Tormentil, Buttercup, Dandelion Strawberry, Sunspurge, Umbellifers, Bedstraw and others.

Personal Records: I have observed this species at several sites; Powerscourt and Knocksink Wood (Co. Wicklow), Clonacullion Wood and Sprucefield in Co. Down as well as Millford Cutting and a brownfield site in Armagh City, Co. Armagh. Between these sites, I have observed it investigating peaty, sandy and clay banks, probably reflecting the nesting preferences of the host species. In all cases the banks were partially-vegetated, rather than bare banks favoured by other Andrena and Nomada. The host species are the Irish mini-miners: Andrena minutula, A. subopaca and possibly A. semilaevis.