Bumble Bees
Bumble Bee, common name for any of a group of large, hairy, usually black-and-yellow, social bees. They are very attractive with characteristic bee-like features, up to 30mm long with 2 pairs of wings. They are mostly found at ground level in holes, compost heaps, earth banks or under garden sheds.
Bumble Bees are extremely valuable insects as they pollinate many flowers, fruit and vegetables that honeybees cannot.
The queen bee starts looking for a nesting site during March, dependent upon weather conditions. The nest is constructed of moss and grass to give a dense vegetation. The queen spends most of her life inside the nest laying her eggs. The nest only lasts a single season reaching its peak during mid-summer when pollen is readily available. The nest cannot be used again once all the young have left.
How Do I Know Whether I have Bumble Bees?
You will normally have visual sightings of adults flying in and out of holes in the ground.
Are There Any Health Risks?
Bumble bees will sting but only when seriously provoked. However, because their stingers are not barbed, they can sting multiple times. They do not swarm.
How Do I Get Rid of Them?
They tend not to be aggressive and will only sting if threatened. They will die out naturally in the autumn – so if you can, leave them alone.
Unfortunately Test Valley Borough Council no longer undertake any Bee treatments. If you have a problem you will need to contact a private pest control company or the local Beekeeping Society.