Mining Bees…….. with over 75 species found in the southwestern region alone. These beneficial, native, solitary ground-nesters emerge in early spring, often creating small, ant-like mounds in bare soil or sparse lawns. They are crucial early-season pollinators. 

Key Details About Mining Bees in Southern Ontario:

• Activity Period: They are among the first bees to emerge, often seen in mid-April to early May.

• Appearance: They are generally small to medium-sized (5 mm–15 mm), often featuring fuzzy bodies, with males sporting a distinct "mustache".

• Behavior: They are solitary, meaning they do not live in hives. Although they nest individually, they often create burrows close together, causing small "colonies" in sandy or bare, exposed soil.

• Safety: They are non-aggressive and rarely sting.

• Habitat: They prefer sunny areas with sparse vegetation for nesting. 

• If you see tiny mounds with a hole in the center on your lawn in spring, they are likely mining bees, not ants.