Xenoglossa strenua, Squash Bee
- pollinators1
- Oct 15
- 1 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Xenoglossa strenua is one species of solitary, ground-nesting bees commonly known as Squash Bees. They are specialist pollinators, relying almost exclusively on one type of plant -in this case, squashes, pumpkins, and gourds. The adults are attracted to the distinctive scent of the flowers and can be found foraging around dawn. Their activity tapers off by mid-morning, though sleepy males may be found resting inside the flowers throughout the day. Females prefer to dig individual branching nests in mostly bare soil, where they lay several eggs and provision each with a mixture of nectar and pollen to nourish the developing larvae.
Preserving open soil habitats near gardens and farms is essential for supporting healthy populations of these agriculturally important pollinators!
In 2022, People & Pollinators Action Network (PPAN) championed CO Senate Bill 22-199 at the legislature, in which the CO Department of Natural Resources commissioned a study on our state's native pollinating insects.
Insects, often underestimated, play a remarkable role in our state's landscapes. Not only are they cool, but they are also vital contributors to essential ecosystem services. From pollination to waste decomposition,
insects support Colorado's diverse landscapes, from the mountains to the rivers.
Join us as we delve into the world of this fascinating wildlife and learn about the Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Study (2024) report!
