Augochlora pura is a solitary sweat bee found primarily in the Eastern United States. Its Latin name means “pure golden green“, a lovely description of its metallic green hue. It nests in rotting logs, and can produce up to three generations per year. Both males and females have been observed licking sweat from human skin, most likely seeking salt.

If you are being “foraged” by sweat bees, be careful to brush them from your elbow and knee joints before bending your limbs, or you may be inadvertently stung.