One of the first insects of spring is the humble bumble-bee, Bombus terrestris. Also known as the buff-tailed bumblebee this can be confusing as it is not the only bumblee-bee with a buff tail! However, the two honey coloured bands, one on the thorax and one on the abdomen help you pin it down.
In the south of England the queens, which hibernate, can be up and about in February although March is more usual.
Bombus terrestris is a common garden species and can be seen throughout the spring and summer but it is very difficult to tell the workers apart from their cousin, the white-tailed bumblebee, Bombus lucorum which is also common.
As its name implies, Bombus terrestris is terrestrial! It prefers to nest under ground. Again, this is misleading as other species of bumblebee nest under ground too!
They will visit a wide range of flowers but they have a very short tongue and so will often bite through the base of the corolla on long tubed flowers to get to the nectar.
Bumblebees are lovely, furry creatures and pretty harmless too. They add another dimension to your garden wildlife and should be encouraged.
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