Description

Body length 11 - 22mm. Queens are black with a dark orange band on the thorax, a yellow band on the abdomen and a buff 'tail'. The males and workers are similar but the workers have a white tail and are practically identical to White-tailed Bumblebee, Bombus lucorum,  workers. The queens are one of the earliest bees to be on the wing.

Habitat

Can be found in a wide variety of habitats including gardens, meadows and woodlands.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread throughout Britain. Common in Nottinghamshire and very common at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

February to November.