What is the current conservation status of Bombus cullumanus?

Cullum's bumblebee is currently listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It has experienced a sharp, catastrophic decline across its native European range since the mid-20th century.

Where was Bombus cullumanus historically found?

Historically, this species was native to parts of Europe, with populations recorded in southern England, France, Germany, and Sweden. Today, it is believed to be extremely rare or functionally extinct in much of its original western European habitat.

What does Bombus cullumanus look like?

The bee features a distinct coloration, typically characterized by a yellow thorax and a largely black abdomen with a distinct reddish-orange tail. Females and males exhibit slight sexual dimorphism, with males having longer antennae and more yellow facial hair.

What caused the rapid decline of Cullum's bumblebee?

The primary drivers of its drastic population drop are believed to be habitat loss due to intensive agricultural practices and the loss of vital clover-rich grasslands. The heavy use of agricultural neonicotinoid pesticides has also severely impacted their ability to forage and reproduce.

How does Bombus cullumanus compare to competitors?

Lunoo provides objective, AI-powered comparisons. Use the comparison tool to see Bombus cullumanus side-by-side with any alternative.

zoom_in Click to enlarge

Bombus cullumanus

8.06

Great

▲ ▼

description Bombus cullumanus Overview

Bombus cullumanus, commonly known as Cullum's bumblebee, is a critically endangered species of insect in the family Apidae native to Europe. The species has experienced a severe population decline since the 1950s, resulting in it becoming locally extinct across much of its historical range. It is currently one of the rarest bumblebees globally, with modern sightings limited to very few isolated populations, making it a primary focus of regional conservation efforts.

help Bombus cullumanus FAQ

How good is Bombus cullumanus?

Bombus cullumanus scores 8.06/10 (Great) on Lunoo, making it a well-rated option in the Bee category. Extreme rarity and conservation significance elevate its reputation, while limited observation and ecological documentation constrain wider appreciati...

What are the best alternatives to Bombus cullumanus?

See our alternatives page for Bombus cullumanus for a ranked list with scores. Top alternatives include: Great Yellow Bumblebee (Bombus distinguendus), Shrill Carder Bee (Bombus sylvarum), Buff-tailed Bumblebee (Bombus terrestris).

How does Bombus cullumanus compare to Great Yellow Bumblebee (Bombus distinguendus)?

See our detailed comparison of Bombus cullumanus vs Great Yellow Bumblebee (Bombus distinguendus) with scores, features, and an AI-powered verdict.

Is Bombus cullumanus worth it in 2026?

With a score of 8.06/10, Bombus cullumanus is highly rated in Bee. See all Bee ranked.

swap_horiz

Looking for Bombus cullumanus alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward