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Red-belted bumble bee

Red-belted bumble bee

Bombus rufocinctus

A species of Bumble bees

The queen is 1.6 - 1.8 cm long and just under 1 cm wide at the abdomen. It is black with scattered gray and yellowish hairs on the head. The abdomen has many bright yellow hairs and areas of reddish hairs. The worker is 1.1 - 1.2 cm long and 5 mm wide at the abdomen. It is similar to the queen but it may have longer hairs. The male is 1.2 - 1.3 cm long and 5 mm wide at the abdomen. It is mostly black with more yellow on the head and abdomen. This species displays four genetically-controlled color polymorphisms: the second and third abdominal terga may have red or black hairs, and the fourth and fifth may be either yellow or black.

General Info About Red-belted bumble bee
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Attributes of Red-belted bumble bee
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
forest; grassland; shrubland
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen, floral oils, tree resins, honey
Larva Food Source
Pollen, nectar, honey, eggs, larval saliva
Biting/stinging
The Red-belted bumble bee may bite humans actively. Please stay away from it.
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
The Red-belted bumble bee has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Red-belted bumble bee can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Species Status of Red-belted bumble bee
It is native to North America where it has a wide distribution across Canada and the western, midwestern, and northeastern United States. It may occur in Mexico.
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Distribution Area of Red-belted bumble bee
North America, Canada, western, midwestern and northeastern United States, Mexico
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Predators of Red-belted bumble bee Larvae
Amphibians such as frogs and toads, various bird species, arachnids such as spiders, insect predators such as mantises, reptiles such as lizards
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Predators of Adult Red-belted bumble bee
Birds, rodents, lizards, mammalian insectivores, larger insects such as dragonflies and mantises
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Interesting Facts About Red-belted bumble bee
Red-belted bumble bee can vibrate their bodies in a way to dislodge pollen from flowers, a technique termed 'buzz pollination' which is crucial for certain crops.
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Scientific Classification of Red-belted bumble bee
Class
Bugs
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Order
Bees
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Tips for Finding Red-belted bumble bee
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Youth Habitat of Red-belted bumble bee
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Red-belted bumble bee
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Alpine Regions
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When is the Best Time to Observe Red-belted bumble bee
Late morning to early afternoon on a warm, sunny day is the ideal time to find red-belted bumble bee when they are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Red-belted bumble bee
Sunny and calm weather, with minimal wind and no rain, provides the best conditions for observing and finding red-belted bumble bee.
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How and Where Can You Find Red-belted bumble bee at Different Life Stages
Larva Red-belted bumble bee larvae are found within the colony’s wax cells. To find them, observe the nest from a safe distance without disturbing it. It's important to avoid disrupting the larvae and the colony.
Pupal Red-belted bumble bee pupae develop inside their wax cells, so locating them would require observation of a nest. Always ensure that this is done safely and preferably with expert guidance.
Adult Red-belted bumble bee adults can be found foraging on flowers. Search for flowering plants that are known to attract pollinators. An observational approach from a respectful distance will help to spot red-belted bumble bee without interfering with their activities.
Are Red-belted bumble bee harmful?
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The red-belted bumble bee can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.

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Are Red-belted bumble bee harmful to humans?

Most bees are docile and only sting when they are irritated. The sting needles of bees are sharp and toxic, and people will obviously feel pain after being stung. Some bees may also cause swelling, redness, fever and itching. Some sensitive people may experience more severe symptoms or even death.
Beneficial Effects of Red-belted bumble bee
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Collect Pollen To Feed Offspring, Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Red-belted bumble bee is a diligent pollinator, buzzing from flower to flower. It's attracted by the vivid colors and enticing scents of blossoms, especially those of the Asteraceae family and fruit trees. While gathering pollen to nourish its young, red-belted bumble bee inadvertently transfers pollen, aiding in plant fertilization and biodiversity.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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