Bumblebee

Natural Habitat

Bumblebees can be found in a wide variety of habitats including grasslands, woodlands, urban gardens, and agricultural areas, generally wherever there are flowering plants. They often nest underground in abandoned rodent burrows, tree cavities, or under tussocks of grass.

Diet & Feeding

Adult bumblebees primarily feed on nectar for carbohydrates (energy) and pollen for protein, fats, and other nutrients. Larvae are fed pollen and nectar by worker bees.

Behavior Patterns

Bumblebees are social insects living in colonies, typically smaller than honeybee colonies. They are active during the day, foraging for nectar and pollen. Queens emerge in spring to start new nests, lay eggs, and workers emerge to forage and tend to the young. They exhibit 'buzz pollination' (sonication) where they rapidly vibrate their flight muscles to release pollen.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can sting if provoked, though generally less aggressive than wasps. The sting can be painful but is typically only medically significant for individuals with severe allergies. Benefits: Extremely important pollinators for many wild plants and agricultural crops, including fruits, vegetables, and seeds, contributing significantly to biodiversity and food production.

Identified on: 8/21/2025