Bumblebee

Actual Size: ¾ to 1 inch

Characteristics: Large, fuzzy insects with round, robust bodies covered in dense hair that is typically black with yellow or orange bands. They have short wings relative to their body size and a stout shape.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Habitat: Commonly found in gardens, meadows, woodlands, and other areas rich in flowering plants where they can gather nectar and pollen. They often nest underground in abandoned rodent burrows or in dense grass.

Habits:

Bumblebees are important pollinators and produce only small amounts of honey.
Unlike honey bees, they are able to sting multiple times without dying.
They can be confused with carpenter bees, but bumblebees have hairy abdomens while carpenter bees have smooth ones.

Bumblebees in Athens, GA

Bumblebees are large, robust insects covered in densely branched hairs that give them a fuzzy appearance. They are highly important pollinators for many crops and ornamental plants. Their bodies are specially adapted for collecting and transferring pollen between flowers. According to the National Wildlife Federation, their wings beat at least 130 times per second. This rapid wing movement allows them to perform buzz pollination by vibrating flowers until they release pollen, which ultimately helps plants produce more fruit.

Bumblebee Habitat

Typically, bumblebee colonies range from a dozen to a few hundred workers, making them much smaller than honey bee colonies. Their queen is responsible for establishing and maintaining the colony throughout the season. Despite their size, they are highly efficient pollinators. Most nest underground in deserted rodent burrows or shallow spaces beneath patio stones, landscaping wood, compost piles, and thick grass. They may also nest above ground in abandoned bird nests or insulated structural voids found in walls, decks, and patio roofs.

Bumblebee Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Bumblebees are peaceful insects that rarely sting unless they are provoked. The majority of stings happen when people accidentally disturb their nests. Only female bumblebees have the ability to sting, and they can sting repeatedly, unlike honey bees. While they are capable of multiple stings, they do not form swarming groups like honey bees. Their sting is generally less painful than a honey bee sting, but it can still pose risks if it occurs in sensitive areas such as the head or neck, or if the person is allergic. Because they may defend themselves aggressively, professional bee removal is recommended.