Red-belted bumble bee

Meadows, fields, gardens, and open woodland edges where flowering plants are abundant.

Nectar and pollen from a wide variety of flowering plants.

Eusocial insects living in annual colonies founded by a single mated queen in spring. They are active foragers, often using 'buzz pollination' to release pollen from flowers.

Benefits include vital pollination of native wildflowers and agricultural crops. Risks are minimal, as they are generally docile and only sting in self-defense if handled or threatened.