Bombus terrestis complex Netherlands (Buff-tailed bumblebee group Netherlands)♀︎

Last update: 8 May 2021


Unknown

LOCATION: Krimpen aan den IJssel, garden

OBSERVATION:
2020-III-042019-III-24


This enormous bumblebee was slowly awaking in the sun on the first real spring day this year, a female from the Buff-tailed bumblebee group and I think a queen.

Buff-tailed Bumblebee group (Western-Europe) ♀︎
Buff-tailed Bumblebee group (Western-Europe) ♀︎

The bumblebee carried a number of mites that had dug in in her neck on both sides of her body.

Mites on the bumble bee

The appearance of the Buff-tailed bumblebee group queens in the beginning early in the year indicates the start of the new season.

Buff-tailed bumblebee group (Western-Europe) ♀︎
Buff-tailed bumblebee group (Western-Europe) ♀︎

References

1 Gokcezade, J & Gereben-Krenn, B.-A & Neumayer, Johann & Krenn, Harald. (2010). Feldbestimmungsschlüssel für die Hummeln Österreichs, Deutschlands und der Schweiz (Hymenoptera, Apidae). Linzer Biologische Beiträge. 42.

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