What is Wallace's Giant Bee and why is it called the 'flying bulldog'?

Wallace's Giant Bee is the world's largest bee, measuring up to 1.5 inches. It's nicknamed 'flying bulldog' due to its large size, intimidating buzz, muscular build, and oversized mandibles.

Where does Wallace's Giant Bee live and what is unique about its nest?

Wallace's Giant Bee lives exclusively in lowland forests in Indonesia's North Moluccas. Uniquely, it nests inside active termite mounds, using tree resin to line the chambers.

When was Wallace's Giant Bee rediscovered and what is its conservation status?

Wallace's Giant Bee was rediscovered in 2019 after being missing for decades. It is currently classified as 'Vulnerable' by the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and other threats.

Home / Environment / Giant 'Flying Bulldog' Bee Rediscovered

Giant 'Flying Bulldog' Bee Rediscovered

1 Jan

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Summary

The world's largest bee, Wallace's Giant Bee, was rediscovered in 2019.
Females reach 1.5 inches, with a wingspan of 2.5 inches, possessing large mandibles.
This solitary bee nests in active termite mounds, using tree resin for protection.

The world's largest bee, Wallace's Giant Bee (Megachile pluto), has been rediscovered in Indonesia's North Moluccas. First documented over 160 years ago by Alfred Russel Wallace, this 'flying bulldog' bee had eluded scientists for decades, with its last confirmed sighting before 2019 being in 1981. Its rediscovery in 2019 by a GWC initiative sparked global scientific excitement.

This remarkable insect is distinguished by its impressive size, with females measuring up to 1.5 inches long and possessing a 2.5-inch wingspan and formidable mandibles. Unlike hive-dwelling bees, Wallace's Giant Bee is solitary and constructs its nests within active termite mounds. It meticulously scrapes tree resin to line these chambers, creating a secure, waterproof environment for itself and its young.

Wallace's Giant Bee is classified as 'Vulnerable' due to threats including habitat loss from deforestation, logging, and agriculture. Concerns about illegal wildlife trade also persist, evidenced by a specimen previously listed for $9,100 online. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect this unique species and its fragile lowland forest habitat.