Nature Field Guide
Orchid Bees
- Spanish name
- Abejas de las orquídeas
- Scientific name
- Euglossini — group card
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “Let's look closely at the orchid bees!”
Tati: “We can compare its shape and markings without touching it.”
Species overview
About the Orchid Bees
This group includes many metallic-colored bees. The illustration represents the group rather than an identified species.
Identification
Key Features of the Orchid Bees
Often metallic colors
two pairs of wings
males may visit scented flowers
Habitat & range
Suitable forest, garden or open habitats; distribution varies with habitat and species.
Local observations
Regional tags are broad habitat-based discovery suggestions for this insect group, not a verified range for one species. Confirm local records with a guide or identification reference.
When to observe
Look during suitable weather. Activity and visibility vary by locality and species.
Conservation & care
Observe without collecting, handling or disturbing insects or nests. Stay on permitted paths. Leave caterpillars and their food plants in place.
Observation activity
Record the date, location and two visible clues. Compare your observation with a verified photograph before naming a species.
Explore by location
Caribbean · Central Highlands · Central Pacific · Central Valley · Guanacaste · Northern Plains · Puntarenas & the Gulf Islands · South Pacific