This relatively small Andrena is well named, as it has a strong association with Tormentil, a small yellow flower of acidic soils. It typically measures between 8-11mm and females have an overall dark appearance, with brown hindlegs fringed with pale orange hairs and subtle bands of grey hairs on the abdomen. The male is smaller and hairier and lacks the orange pollen hairs. Both sexes resemble Andrena coitana, but the yellow hind tibia of the female and the reduced white faical markings of the male will allow successful identification. It is listed as Vulnerable in Ireland, primarily due to habitat loss.

Distribution in Ireland: Widespread but local, most records come from hilly areas over acidic soils.

Flight Period: Flies in a single generation between June-August, peaking in early July.

Habitat: Dry heath, bogland margins, acidic woodland edges and scrub. The presence of Tormentil is a prerequisite for the occurrence of this species.

Flowers visited: Females are oligolectic on Tormentil. Males will nectar on Tormentil and sometimes others flowers such as brambles.

Personal Records: I have observed this species in a clearing in Clonacullion Wood and in Kilbroney Forest, both situated in the Mourne Mountains in Co. Down. At the latter site, there is a small nesting aggregation in dry peaty soil along some of the well-trodden paths.  I have also observed foraging females in Bonny Glen, Co. Donegal. It should be searched for in upland woodland clearings or heathlands on Tormentil flowers. Females can fly quickly and spend little time foraging on each flower. The kleptoparasite of this species, Nomada roberjeotiana has been dubiously recorded in Ireland in the past but its status here remains unclear. It was possibly mistaken for the Flat-ridged Nomad Bee (Nomada obtusifrons) which may use this species as a host in some areas.