Andrena cineraria, commonly known as the Ashy Mining Bee, is a solitary bee species found across Europe. It prefers sandy or clay soils in open areas like meadows and gardens. This bee is distinguished by its black body with a striking ashy-gray thorax, and it is an important pollinator of early spring flowers.

Andrena cineraria, commonly known as the ashy mining bee, is native to Europe. Its geographical distribution spans across most of the continent, including countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and extending into parts of Northern Africa and Asia Minor.

Andrena cineraria typically inhabits temperate regions with a preference for open, sunny areas. It is commonly found in environments such as meadows, gardens, parks, and woodland edges. The species thrives in areas with sandy or light soils which are suitable for nesting.

The ashy mining bee is a solitary bee species that plays a crucial role in pollination. It is active in the spring, coinciding with the flowering period of many plants. This species is known to have a preference for a wide variety of flowers, including fruit trees, dandelions, and other wildflowers, contributing significantly to local ecosystems through its pollination activities.