Switzerland's giant violet carpenter bee crowned Wild Bee of the Year 2026
Switzerland's largest wild bee, the violet carpenter bee, has won the public vote for Wild Bee of the Year 2026. Organised by Bienen Schweiz, the poll highlights the striking insect's deep hum, glossy black body, and shimmering blue-violet wings. The bee's impressive size—nearly three centimetres long—makes it a standout species in the country's threatened bee population.
The violet carpenter bee (Xylocopa violacea) is known for its unusual nesting habits. Females carve tunnels as thick as a finger into solid wood, using the sawdust to create partitions inside. Their choice of wood varies widely, from fruit trees like apple to poplar and willow. Despite their strength, these bees face growing challenges.
Nearly half of Switzerland's wild bee species are now endangered or critically endangered. Specialised bees, such as the bellflower scissor bee, struggle due to habitat loss and invasive predators like the Asian hornet. To combat this, *Bienen Schweiz* has expanded habitats through its *Blühflächenprogramm*, adding over one million square metres of flowering meadows in three years. The organisation also promotes the protection of nesting sites—dead wood, plant stems, and open soil—and encourages gardeners to leave areas untidy to preserve natural habitats. Public awareness plays a key role in conservation efforts. Initiatives like the *Wild Bee of the Year* draw attention to lesser-known species. Simple actions, such as planting purple sage or broad beans, can attract violet carpenter bees and support other wild pollinators.
The violet carpenter bee's recognition comes at a critical time for Switzerland's wild bees. With habitat loss and invasive species threatening their survival, conservation programmes and public involvement remain vital. By preserving nesting sites and creating flower-rich areas, efforts continue to safeguard these essential pollinators.
