This is one of the larger Leafcutters in Ireland and it is a little more straightforward to identify than some of the others, although it can still be tricky unless good views or photographs are obtained. In general, females are rather broadly-built compared to M. versicolor or M. centuncularis and usually are noticeably hairier. The final abdominal tergite has long upright hairs and the scopa (hairs under the abdomen for collecting pollen) is a reddish-orange which extends all the way back to the tip of the abdomen. Irish females have pale grey, almost white hairs in some cases on the head, thorax sides and upper abdomen. Males are also distinctive and have pale, hairy flattened forelegs. This is distinctive in most areas but in southeastern coastal areas, they can be confused with male M. maritima.

Distribution in Ireland: Widespread throughout, although records would suggest that it is commoner in the southern half of the island.

Flight Period: Early June-early September.

Habitat: A wide variety of habitats including parks and gardens, dune systems, moorland and woodland edges.

Flowers Visited: A variety of flowers such as Greater and Common Bird’s-foot Trefoils, knapweeds, thistles, brambles etc.

Personal Records: I have recorded females of this species in Hillsborough (Co. Down) foraging on Spear Thistle, at Dawros Head (Co. Donegal) foraging on Tormentil and at the Meeting of the Waters (Co. Wicklow), foraging on Bramble. I have also found males in Skerries in Co. Dublin, Clonacullion Wood (Co. Down), Armagh city (Co. Armagh) and in Sheskinmore (Co. Donegal). It appears to favour flower-rich habitats with a varied topography. Nesting occurs singly in deadwood and it is a possible host of one of Ireland’s two recorded Sharp-tailed Bees (Coelioxys inermis or C. elongata).