Buff-tailed bumblebee or Large earth bumblebee

Found across Europe in various habitats including gardens, meadows, parks, and agricultural land. They typically nest underground in abandoned rodent burrows.

Feeds on nectar and pollen from a wide variety of flowers. They are polylectic, meaning they visit many different plant species.

Eusocial insects with a colony structure. They exhibit 'buzz pollination' where they vibrate their wing muscles to release pollen. Queens emerge in early spring to establish new colonies.

Essential pollinators for both wild flowers and commercial crops (like tomatoes). They are generally non-aggressive but can sting multiple times if their nest is disturbed or if they are handled roughly.