Common Name: Blue Chequered Cuckoo Bee
Latin Name: Thyreus caeruleopunctatus
Saturday, 20 May is World Bee Day and we’re turning our attention to one of Bayside’s local native bee species the incredible Blue Chequered Cuckoo Bee. This native bee has striking iridescent blue and black colouration and demonstrates resourcefulness and adaptability, enabling it to thrive in its native Australian environment.
The Blue Chequered Cuckoo Bee has a unique survival strategy similar to the behaviour of Cuckoo birds. Rather than constructing its own nest, this clever bee infiltrates the nests of closely related bee species. They can look very similar to one of the other Bayside native bees, the Blue-banded Bee and it is this similarity that enables them to go undetected by their hosts. Chequered Cuckoo bees will carefully select an opportune moment when the host bee is occupied and then discreetly lay its egg alongside the host’s offspring. Once the cell is sealed, the cuckoo bee offspring emerges and consumes the provisions meant for the host bee. This strategy showcases the adaptability and resourcefulness of the Blue Chequered Cuckoo Bee.
As you explore the beauty of Bayside on this World Bee Day, keep a keen eye out for the captivating Blue Chequered Cuckoo Bee. Nurture pollinator-friendly gardens with a variety of blooming treasures to attract and support these remarkable bees, adding a touch of iridescent wonder to our Bayside community.
Photo by: John Eichler
