Bumble bees are vital pollinators, contributing significantly to the reproduction of many plants, including fruits and vegetables. Despite their widespread presence, the specific locations where these insects establish their homes often remain a mystery to many.
Bumble Bees and Ground Nests
Many bumble bee species establish colonies beneath the ground’s surface. These ground nests commonly utilize abandoned underground cavities, such as old rodent burrows, providing a ready-made, insulated shelter. Bumble bees do not dig their own burrows but repurpose existing structures, often attracted by insulating materials like grass, plant stems, and fur left behind.
These subterranean locations offer several advantages, including protection from predators and adverse weather. Ground insulation and nesting materials help maintain a stable temperature, important for the queen to focus on laying eggs and supporting her colony. Bumble bees also seek dry, enclosed spaces for their nests, avoiding wet areas or excessive direct sunlight that could lead to overheating.
Beyond Ground Nests
While many bumble bee species prefer underground habitats, their nesting preferences extend to other sheltered locations. Some species establish nests on the surface in dense tussocks of grass or mossy vegetation. These surface nests still prioritize concealment and insulation to protect the colony.
Bumble bees are opportunistic nesters, utilizing any dry, protected cavity they can find. Nests can also be found in compost heaps, under sheds, in hollow trees, bird boxes, abandoned beehives, or under logs. The common theme across all these diverse nesting sites is the need for a sheltered, insulated space that offers protection from elements and predators.
What a Nest Contains
A bumble bee nest has a distinct internal structure. The queen lines the chosen cavity with soft, insulating materials such as moss, grass, or leaves to create a chamber. Within this insulated space, she constructs small wax cells for different purposes.
The nest contains “honey pots” where nectar is stored for the colony’s immediate needs, as bumble bees do not store honey in large quantities like honey bees. Smaller brood cells hold eggs, larvae, and pupae. Unlike the organized hexagonal combs of honey bees, bumble bee nests often appear messy and disarranged, with cells clustered irregularly. The colony consists of a single queen, female worker bees, and male drones, all working to ensure colony growth and new queen production.
Coexisting with Bumble Bees
Bumble bees are docile and rarely sting unless threatened or their nest is disturbed. If a nest is found, observe it from a safe distance and leave it undisturbed. Bumble bee colonies are annual, lasting a single season and naturally dying off by late autumn.
To encourage bumble bees, plant native flowers that provide nectar and pollen. Provide suitable nesting areas, such as undisturbed patches of dense grass or small brush piles. Bumble bees are important pollinators, and many species face decline, making their protection a significant conservation concern.