• Forage within 400 feet of their shelters
• Forage exclusively on each crop when placed in field
• Have a natural attraction to most bloom
  (small size = easier to work some bloom)
• Less likely to leave one crop for another

• Largest number of pollinators used in the alfalfa seed industry
• Primarily pollen feeders (must consume pollen initially to stimulate ovaries)
• More effective pollen transports
  (carry more pollen per visit = bigger berries or fruit)
• Visit an average 8 flower per minute
• Can achieve rapid fruit set with normal stocking rate (2 gal./acre)
• May pollinate crops that do not attract honeybees

• Non-aggressive or protective of their nests
• They can sting but seldom do (very weak unlike honeybees or wasps)
• Do not swarm as they are solitary bees
• Nests, trays and equipment can be handled at all times with little reaction

• Standard stocking rate of leafcutter bees can be as effective as 3 strong
  honeybee colonies
• Large numbers produced and available in Canada each year for export
• Larvae recovery may average 25-40% and may reduce future purchases
  (improved management = improved recovery)