Probably polylectic: British pollen sources unknown. Chambers (1968) recorded (apparently from Bedfordshire) Sinapis and Brassica cultivars (Brassicaceae) for A. pilipes, but this host was possibly misidentified nigrospina (his collection did not seem to contain authentic A. pilipes from this county). Other records from specimens of nigrospina in this collection are Stellaria (Caryophyllaceae) and Heracleum (Apiaceae). Kocourek (1966) and Dylewska (1987) provide a list of the flowers visited by both broods in eastern Europe.
Single pollen samples were collected from Andrena nigrospina at Anchor Field, Upper Blackstone Farm and Burlish Top Corner (Worcestershire, UK). A variety of pollens other than the suspected Brassica napus and Raphanus raphanistrum (Brassicaceae) seem to be used. Papaver (Papaveraceae) was dominant in one sample and Rosaceae in another (probably Rubus/Rosa), however analysis of more samples are necessary to draw firm conclusions. Observation suggested the possibility of a switch in pollen preference during the course of a day and changes as the flight period progresses are also highly likely. As with pollen, observations suggested the nectar preferences are wide ranging.