American Bumblebee

Bombus pennsylvanicus

Bumblebee queens are huge; they are most often seen visiting flowers in early spring, before they have raised their first brood of workers. After the workers hatch, they do all of the nectar and pollen gathering while the queen stays in the nest. Bumblebee nests are usually underground in old squirrel or gopher holes, but sometimes they are inside walls or hollow trees. Each nest dies out at the end of summer.

Look For : A large, fuzzy, black and yellow-orange bee; dark wings. Gathers nectar; attacks if nest disturbed.

Length : 7/8".

Habitat : Woods, gardens, meadows.

Range : Widespread.