While we were on errands today I was in the passenger side of the car with the window down a couple inches. All of a sudden I heard a snapping type sound and felt a sharp prick in my neck. When we were able to pull off the road I found this insect on the seat. It had apparently fallen down the back of my shirt after hitting my neck. It felt like I was stung not just bumped but we find no stinger. Felt several stabs of pain after it hit me.

Is this a bee? I thought it was but it looks a bit different, none of that golden color. It was very lethargic after it got me and took a few hours before it died.

Hi Linda,
Well, it's hard to tell for sure from the picture. However, I’d say if the top surface of the abdomen is mostly bare and shiny (instead of hairy) it’s probably a Carpenter Bee.

Art

Art.