This is the second most widely-recorded Hylaeus species in Ireland after Hyaleus communis. It is a rather small species measuring around 7mm with a predominantly smooth, hairless black body and yellow markings on the face, hindlegs and thorax. Identification is not as difficult as it typically is for other groups like Sphecodes or Lasioglossum, but close views under magnification are still usually required. The males are unique in that they are the only Irish species with pale white-yellow markings on their mandibles, hence the name. It is listed as Least Concern and probably more widespread than current records suggest.

Distribution in Ireland: Widespread in Ireland but there are little or no sightings in the midlands, western Ulster and parts of Connacht.

Flight Period: Early May-September, peaking in June-August.

Habitat: A wide range of habitats have been noted, but appears to be more frequently encountered in woodland edges, scrub and woody clearings.

Flowers visited: Dandelion, Sheep’s-bit, Yarrow, Bramble and others.

Personal Records: I have seen this species in Bonny Glen (Co. Donegal), Slieve Carran and Ballard (Co. Clare). I have also recorded this species in scrubby woodland along the Bloody Bridge trail in Co. Down. I have not observed the nesting sites, but it reportedly nests singly in dead wood and hollow stems. It should be searched for in warm scrubby areas with flowers such as Bramble and Dandelion.