Best time to see: late Feb to end Jul
Key facts
A bumblebee species that arrived in the UK in 2001 and has since spread across most of England
Principally a lowland species, found in woods and rough grassland and also parks and gardens
Widespread across continental Europe (as well as, more recently, the south of the UK)
Recognition
Black, except for a russet-coloured abdomen and white tail
Regularly visit flowers of fruit trees and soft fruit such as raspberries
More aggressive than most other species of bumblebee, both in defending its own nest and attacking other bees' nests
Lifecycle
Queens emerge from hibernation as early as late February, and nest in cavities above ground such as tree holes
Produce males and new queens from late May on, sometimes followed later by a partial second brood
Fond of nesting in birdboxes, if an old nest is left in place
- photo
© Tony Gunton