description Bombus rufocinctus Overview
Bombus rufocinctus, the red-belted bumblebee, is a North American bumblebee species first described in 1863. It is recognized by the reddish band often present on the abdomen and by its wide variation in color patterns across queens, workers, and males. The species ranges across much of Canada and the United States, where it nests in underground cavities and forages from a broad range of flowering plants. As a generalist pollinator, it visits both wildflowers and cultivated crops during the active season.
help Bombus rufocinctus FAQ
Why is Bombus rufocinctus called the red-belted bumblebee?
Many individuals have a reddish band across part of the abdomen, producing the red-belted appearance behind the common name. The species is unusually variable, however, so not every worker, queen, or male displays an identical pattern.
Where in North America can Bombus rufocinctus be found?
The red-belted bumblebee has a broad North American distribution, particularly across Canada and the northern and western United States. It occurs in habitats that provide flowering plants and suitable nesting or overwintering sites.
Can Bombus rufocinctus be identified by color alone?
Color alone is unreliable because Bombus rufocinctus has several markedly different color forms. Identification should also consider facial features, hair patterns, sex, geographic range, and comparison with similar Bombus species.
When was Bombus rufocinctus scientifically described?
The species was described in 1863. Its scientific name, Bombus rufocinctus, refers to the red girdle or band that appears prominently in many individuals.
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