Small Garden Bumblebee

Bombus hortorum

Description

Body length 11 – 20mm. The basic colour is black with a yellow collar and a yellow band on the scutellum and the abdomen, while the tail is white. The hairs are long and can give this bee a very scruffy appearance. This species has a very long tongue for reaching into deep-throated flowers and can often be seen with it extended. The face is also quite long, to accommodate the tongue.

Habitat

Woodlands, gardens and meadows with a rich variety of flowers.

Status and Distribution

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

Best Time to See

March to September.

All photography taken at the Netherfield Lagoons, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire.
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