After finding a new introduced species, it's heartening to see some natives, like this Osmia ribifloris, in the urban center. There are many species of Osmia, including the cultivated blue orchard bee, O. lignaria; but I'm pretty sure this is O. ribifloris, given it's very dark hairs, early spring emergence, and overall extremely metallic blue appearance. Gorgeous!

While visiting a local community garden in Boulder I just happened to check the windowsills for signs of bees. Low and behold, this fuzzy nugget had gotten trapped and succumbed to the spring heat. After a quick glance I immediately noticed its 'horns' and though uh oh... Took it back to the lab and sure enough, Osmia cornifrons! This is one of the first records of this introduced species to the state! I know lots of others are on their way, but still, it's sad to see that they're here and reproducing most likely.