Digger bees in the genus Anthophora are robust, fast-flying solitary bees found throughout Arizona. They are among the most common and conspicuous native bees in the Sonoran Desert, often mistaken for small bumble bees or hover flies due to their rapid, hovering flight. Digger bees excavate burrows in the ground — typically in bare, compacted, or sandy soil — and provision their nest cells with a mixture of pollen and nectar. They often nest in aggregations, with dozens of females nesting in the same area, which can alarm homeowners. Males are highly territorial and will hover aggressively near nest entrances, but they have no stinger. Females are docile and rarely sting. Digger bees are important pollinators of many native desert plants and garden flowers, particularly those with deep corollas that they access with their long tongues. Several Arizona species are active in late winter and early spring, providing critical early-season pollination services.
👁Warning Signs
Robust, fast-flying bees hovering near ground-level nest entrances. Small soil mounds in bare or sandy soil. Males hovering aggressively near nesting aggregations. Bees visiting flowers with deep corollas.
⚠Health & Property Risks
Males are aggressive in appearance but harmless (no stinger). Female sting is rare and mild. No structural damage. Entirely beneficial.
Prevention Tips
No prevention needed. If aggregations are in an unwanted location, cover bare soil with mulch or groundcover.
🛡Professional Treatment
No treatment warranted. Digger bees are important native pollinators.
Frequently Asked Questions — Digger Bee
The Digger Bee (Anthophora spp.) is brown to black with pale or orange hair bands; some with metallic highlights and typically measures ½–¾ inch. Digger bees in the genus Anthophora are robust, fast-flying solitary bees found throughout Arizona. They are among the most common and conspicuous native bees in the Sonoran Desert, often mistaken for.
The Digger Bee is generally low-risk, but caution is still advised. Males are aggressive in appearance but harmless (no stinger). Female sting is rare and mild. No structural damage. Entirely beneficial.
In Arizona, digger bees are most often encountered in the following situations: Robust, fast-flying bees hovering near ground-level nest entrances. Small soil mounds in bare or sandy soil. Males hovering aggressively near nesting aggregations. Bees visiting flowers with deep corollas.
The Digger Bee is most active during: Late winter through summer; varies by species. Arizona's warm desert climate can extend activity periods compared to other states, so year-round vigilance is recommended in the Phoenix metro and surrounding areas.
No prevention needed. If aggregations are in an unwanted location, cover bare soil with mulch or groundcover.
No treatment warranted. Digger bees are important native pollinators.
If you are seeing digger bees repeatedly, finding evidence of an established population, or if DIY treatments have not resolved the issue within a week or two, it is time to call a professional. Pest Control Bros offers free inspections and same-week service across the Phoenix metro area — no contracts required.
Dealing with Digger Bee?
Pest Control Bros LLC serves Maricopa, Chandler, Casa Grande, Tempe, Gilbert, and Mesa. No contracts. Free inspections. Same-week service.
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