Megachile

Megachile is a diverse genus of cosmopolitan, corpulent solitary bees. In most European species, both sexes have a robust build with a rather large head and strong mandibles, sometimes with cutting edges between their teeth. Females have typically a dark cuticle, moderate to dense body hair and a ventral scopa. Males of several species have enlarged front legs, often with conspicuous fringes, which may play a role in mating behavior. Nesting habits and foraging preferences vary widely across this group. Several species make their nests in pre-existing burrows or cavities, others excavate tunnels in light soil or decaying wood, and some are even capable of building exposed nests using mineral mortar. Females use their large mouthparts to collect different materials to line their brood cells. Depending on the species, they may be pieces of cut leaves, plant resins, mud, or flower petals.