Sweat bee

Sweat bees are small, metallic-colored bees, often green, blue, or bronze. They range from 1/8 to 1/2 inch long. Unlike honeybees, they are typically solitary or semi-social and nest in the ground.

You may notice small, ground-level nests in bare or sparsely vegetated areas of your yard. These are often simple holes in the soil with little or no mound. Sweat bees are attracted to perspiration, so their presence may be indicated by bees landing on skin to collect sweat.

MBPC can treat sweat bee nesting sites with targeted insecticide applications. Our SC Department of Pesticide Regulation-licensed technicians will assess the area and recommend the best approach to minimize risks to beneficial pollinators and your family. We prioritize environmentally responsible solutions for controlling sweat bee populations on Grand Strand properties.

Maintain healthy lawn coverage to reduce bare soil areas where sweat bees prefer to nest. Avoid leaving out sugary drinks or food scraps that might attract them. Rinse off perspiration after outdoor activities, especially during hot Myrtle Beach summers.

Sweat bees thrive in the sandy soils and warm, humid climate of Myrtle Beach. They prefer sunny areas with bare soil for nesting. Common nesting sites include lawns, gardens, and disturbed ground along the Grand Strand's coastal areas.

Peak activity: Spring-Fall