Landcare Research - Manaaki Whenua

Landcare-Research -Manaaki Whenua

Bumble bees

Bombus sp.


Order: Hymenoptera
Family: Apidae

Size range

  • Large insects, up to 25 mm in length

Distribution

  • 4 species introduced to New Zealand for pollination of clover

Life History

  • Useful in pollinating some crops
  • Nests are formed underground
  • Eat pollen and nectar
  • Can sting to defend themselves