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Forest bumble bee

Bombus sylvicola

A species of Bumble bees

Bombus sylvicola is a species of bumblebee native to North America. It occurs throughout most of Canada, its distribution extending into Alaska and the western contiguous United States. In the southernmost extent of its range in California it occurs only at elevation. It is known commonly as the forest bumblebee. This is a common species. It is a bee of alpine and subarctic climates. It lives in open, grassy habitat such as mountain meadows. It nests underground, or sometimes on the surface. Its food plants include sandworts, rabbitbrush, fireweeds, lupines, coyote mints, butterburs, mountain heathers, and groundsels. This was one of two bees featured in a study showing how climate change may be affecting their morphology. This species is polymorphic, with longer-tongued and shorter-tongued individuals. As the current climate change progresses, longer-tongued individuals are becoming less common in the population because flowers with long corollas are becoming less abundant. Shorter-tongued bees are having more success as generalist foragers among the available flora. This species is very similar to the black-tailed bumblebee (B. melanopygus), the two sometimes having nearly identical color patterns.

General Info About Forest bumble bee
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Attributes of Forest bumble bee
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Habitat
open; grassy habitat; mountain meadow; nest underground; flower
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen, tree sap, honey, fruits
Larva Food Source
Pollen, nectar, honey, royal jelly
Biting/stinging
The Forest bumble bee may bite humans actively. Please stay away from it.
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Species Status of Forest bumble bee
Common
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Distribution Area of Forest bumble bee
Most of Canada, Alaska, United States
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Life Cycle of Forest bumble bee
Egg The egg stage is characterized by the tiny, elongated form of forest bumble bee, often deposited in large numbers. In this phase, forest bumble bee is mostly immobile and encased within a protective shell.
Larva During the larval stage, forest bumble bee exhibits rapid growth. The larva is worm-like, lacks wings, and is predominantly focused on feeding on high-nutrient substances to accumulate energy for the metamorphosis.
Pupal In the pupal stage, forest bumble bee is encased within a protective cocoon. This stage is marked by significant internal reorganization, where forest bumble bee undergoes transformation into its adult form, with changes in appendages and body structures noticeable.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult forest bumble bee displays a drastic change in structure, equipped with wings and the ability to reproduce. Distinguished by its complex color patterns and the hardening of its exoskeleton, forest bumble bee now focuses on foraging and breeding.
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Interesting Facts About Forest bumble bee
Forest bumble bee have the unique ability to regulate their body temperature, even in cold environments, by vibrating their flight muscles.
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Scientific Classification of Forest bumble bee
Class
Bugs
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Order
Bees
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Tips for Finding Forest bumble bee
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Youth Habitat of Forest bumble bee
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Forest bumble bee
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Alpine Regions, Meadows
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When is the Best Time to Observe Forest bumble bee
The best time to find forest bumble bee is usually during warmer months and on sunny days when they are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Forest bumble bee
Warm, sunny, and calm weather without strong winds or rain is ideal for locating forest bumble bee.
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How and Where Can You Find Forest bumble bee at Different Life Stages
Larva Forest bumble bee larvae are found inside their nest and are typically not foraging outside. To find larvae, look for nests in the ground, under dense clumps of grass, or occasionally above ground in cavities. Always approach nests with caution to avoid disturbing them.
Pupal During the pupa stage, forest bumble bee are inside the nest, transforming into adults. It's best to locate the nests similar to how you find larvae, which is often underground or in sheltered locations.
Adult Adult forest bumble bee can be found foraging for nectar and pollen on flowers. Identify flowers that are native to the area and are currently blooming, then observe these plants during the hours when forest bumble bee are most active, typically mid-morning to late afternoon.
Are Forest bumble bee harmful?
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Are Forest 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 Forest 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
Forest bumble bee is a diligent pollinator, buzzing from flower to flower. Attracted by the vibrant colors and sweet scents, it gathers pollen on its hairy body while feeding on nectar. The pollen is then transferred to other blooms, aiding in plant reproduction. Forest bumble bee prefers Asteraceae and fruit trees, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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