Bumblebee Identification
What Do Bumblebees Look Like?
Bumblebees are robust, hairy bees with a distinctive appearance. They typically measure around ¾ to 1 inch in length. Bumblebees have round bodies covered in dense hair, which can vary in coloration from black and yellow to orange or even red, depending on the species. Their bodies are segmented, with a plump thorax and abdomen. Bumblebees have large compound eyes and long antennae. They also have two pairs of wings, with the hind wings smaller than the front wings.
Signs of a Bumblebee Infestation
Signs of a bumblebee infestation may include:
- Increased bee activity: Increase in the number of bumblebees flying around a particular area.
- Presence of nests: Bumblebee nests are typically located underground in abandoned burrows or other sheltered locations such as compost piles or under decks.
- Buzzing sounds: Audible buzzing sounds near the nest site as bumblebees enter and exit.
- Pollen and wax residue: Cumulative of pollen and wax residue around nest entrances or nearby vegetation.
- Observation of worker bees foraging for pollen and nectar in the vicinity.
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Habitat, Diet, Life Cycle & Stings
Where Do Bumblebees Live?
Bumblebee colonies are small, containing a dozen to a few hundred workers. Most bumblebees nest in the ground, using deserted rodent burrows and shallow cavities excavated beneath patio stones, landscaping timber, piles of compost, and within dense patches of grass. Above ground, they will occupy abandoned bird nests and fiberglass-insulated structural voids associated with outside walls, patio roofing, and decks.
Diet of a Bumblebee
Bumblebees primarily feed on nectar and pollen obtained from flowers. Nectar serves as their primary source of carbohydrates, providing energy for flight and other activities. Pollen, rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, is collected to feed developing larvae and nourish adult bees. Bumblebees use their long proboscis to access nectar deep within flowers, while pollen collects on their bodies as they forage. The diet is essential for their survival and reproduction.
Life Cycle of a Bumblebee
The life cycle of a bumblebee begins when a mated queen emerges from hibernation in spring to establish a new colony. She constructs a small nest and lays eggs, which hatch into larvae. The queen feeds and cares for the larvae until they pupate. After pupation, they emerge as sterile female workers, which then take over nest-building and foraging duties. Males and new queens are produced later in the season.
Do Bumblebees Sting?
Bumblebees are peaceful insects and only sting when provoked. Most stings happen when their nest is disturbed. Only female bumblebees sting and unlike honey bees, they can sting more than once. Bumblebees can sting multiple times, but they do not form swarms like honey bees. The pain from a bumblebee sting is less painful than a honey bee sting, however, a sting can be dangerous if it occurs on the head or neck, or if an individual is allergic to their venom.
Because bumblebees will sting when threatened, homeowners are advised to seek out a professional bee removal service rather than try to address the infestation themselves.
Are Bumblebees Dangerous?
Bumblebees are generally not considered dangerous to humans. They are docile insects that are not aggressive unless provoked or their nest is threatened. Bumblebees are solitary foragers and typically only sting in self-defense. Their sting is less potent than that of some other stinging insects like honey bees or wasps, and most people experience only minor pain and swelling if stung.
Bumblebee Prevention Tips
To prevent issues with bumblebees:
- Seal openings: Seal cracks, gaps, and openings in buildings to prevent bumblebees from nesting indoors.
- Trim vegetation: Keep vegetation well-maintained to discourage nesting in yard areas.
- Avoid disturbance: If a bumblebee nest is discovered, avoid disturbing it to prevent defensive behavior.
- Limit attractive features: Minimize floral displays in areas where bumblebee presence is unwanted.
- Seek help from our wasp and bee pest control professionals if bumblebee activity becomes problematic.
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FAQs
What is So Special About Bumblebees?
Bumblebees are notable for their unique characteristics and important ecological roles. They are efficient pollinators, using a technique called “buzz pollination” to extract pollen from certain flowers, which is crucial for the reproduction of many plant species, including some crops. Bumblebees are also social insects, living in colonies with a queen and workers. Their large size and robust nature make them effective pollinators across diverse habitats, making them vital to ecosystems and agriculture.
Why Do Bumblebees Fly Around You?
Bumblebees may fly around humans for several reasons:
Curiosity: Bumblebees are curious insects and may investigate their surroundings, including humans, out of curiosity.
Flower scent: Bumblebees are attracted to floral scents, and if you are wearing fragrances or floral-patterned clothing, they may mistake you for a flower.
Food: If you are eating or drinking sweet foods outdoors, bumblebees may be attracted to the scent and hover around you in search of food.
Bumblebees are generally harmless and mean no harm when flying near humans.
Are Bumblebees a Problem?
Bumblebees are not typically considered a problem unless their presence poses a threat or inconvenience in specific situations. While they are beneficial pollinators and generally not aggressive towards humans, large numbers of bumblebees nesting near high-traffic areas or within structures may be considered problematic. Individuals with allergies to bee stings may need to take precautions around bumblebees – and seek medical attention.
