Color: Black with yellow stripes
Legs: 6
Shape: Oval; bee shape
Size: 1″
Antennae: True
Bumblebees are large, fuzzy, social insects. They’re known for their loud buzzing and are easily recognizable, with thick black-and-yellow (sometimes orange/red) striped bodies. They play a vital role as pollinators.
These bees are extensive foragers and will fly long distances to find food. They’re generally not aggressive, but they will sting if their nest is threatened.
As part of the aggressive defense of their nests, Bumblebees will chase nest invaders for a considerable distance. They’re capable of delivering a painful sting, and unlike honey bees, Bumblebees can sting more than once.
Bumblebees don’t dig, and they prefer to use existing spaces for their nests. They’ll often nest in the ground, but they can be found above ground around patio areas or decks. They will sometimes build their nests in soffits or attics.
Bumblebees can be prevented through inspection of potential nesting areas and removal of potential harborage materials. A bumblebee infestation needs professional treatment. Not only will they sting when threatened, it’s also important to note that several species of bumblebee are protected in the USA. If you are dealing with bumblebees, contact RK Environmental.
No, unlike honey bees, bumble bees can sting multiple times. Their stings are smooth rather than barbed, so they’re not left in the wound after stinging. Although bumblebees are not usually aggressive, they will attack if their nest is threatened.
Bumblebees eat nectar for energy, and pollen for protein, both foraged from flowers. They don’t store large amounts of honey, unlike honeybees. Bumblebee larvae are fed the same mixture, brought back to the nest.
These intelligent bees hover for a number of reasons, but the main purpose is to assess whether a flower has enough pollen or nectar. Males also hover when they’re seeking mates, and bumblebees can regulate their body temperature by hovering. It’s also how they navigate and memorize the location of food sources.