Masked Bee ...

[MarkB1]

The one on my finger was rescued from the water, of which there are various locations in the garden. The other was born in one of the bee hotels and sat atop one (under the house) while its wings filled out and set to preening itself, out of the way of the passing populace, some of which are predators.

[Phoenix]

Superb quality shots once again Mark.
They look like they are made of the same material as the Dark forces from Star Wars.
Got photos of a tiny similar bee last week,, very excited to see a variety in the garden..however the similarity in the images ends there.

[MEK]

Fantastic !

[MarkB1]

Thanks for comments guys, appreciated.

Jo, some very nice shots at your link. Love the BBB.

[Phoenix]

Thank you for taking the time to look. I love the BBB's. Very excited to see them. Got a few more snaps of that black bee today.
WInd was blowing everything about and my 200mm macro is not happy when things move. MIght have to be brave enough to post up some of my errr... attempts and at least get a positive id.

[eaglem]

Excellent detail as usual and you get such a huge variety of insects where you are.

[MarkB1]

Excellent detail as usual and you get such a huge variety of insects where you are.

Yes, not far from a huge coastal swamp/forest and remnant rainforest - would be a great breeding ground, plus I plant the garden to feed bugs of all kinds, with daily fruit/veg waste piles dotted about.