description Bombus lapidarius Overview
Bombus lapidarius, commonly known as the red-tailed bumblebee, is a widespread European bee species. It’s recognized by its predominantly black body featuring a distinctive bright orange-red tail. This bumblebee plays a crucial role in pollinating various wildflowers and crops. The species is of particular interest to entomologists studying bee behavior, conservation efforts focused on declining bumblebee populations, and gardeners seeking pollinators for their gardens.
help Bombus lapidarius FAQ
How can I identify a female Bombus lapidarius?
Queens and workers are predominantly black with a sharply contrasting orange-red tail. Unlike males, females normally lack the yellow facial hair and yellow collar that can complicate identification later in the season.
Where do red-tailed bumblebees build their nests?
Bombus lapidarius often nests below ground, including under stones and in abandoned small-mammal burrows. Its scientific name lapidarius refers to an association with stones.
What bee is commonly confused with Bombus lapidarius?
Bombus rupestris, the red-tailed cuckoo bumblebee, closely resembles its host species and may invade Bombus lapidarius nests. The cuckoo bee often has darker wings, sparser hair and no pollen baskets on its hind legs.
When do red-tailed bumblebee workers and males appear?
Workers generally appear several weeks after a queen establishes her nest in spring. Males are produced toward the end of the colony's roughly three-to-four-month nesting cycle and can show yellow hair around the face and thorax.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
