Description

Body length 12 - 22mm. A large bumblebee with a yellow collar on the thorax, a yellow band on the abdomen and a white tail. Workers are very difficult to distinguish from those of the buff-tailed Bumblebee, Bombus terrestris. Bombus lucorum is a species complex with two other cryptic species that cannot be identified except by pheromones that are unique to each species.

Habitat

A wide variety of habitats are used including woodlands, meadows and gardens.

Status and distribution

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

Best time to see

February to October.