Bumble Bees

Bumble bees are large hairy bees, typically black and yellow or black and orange in color. They are not good fliers compared to other bees, and make an audible buzzing sound when in flight. They are beneficial as pollinators of many flowering plants. Bumble bees build nests of a waxy material they secrete. Nests look like an odd collection of conical egg-shaped cells.

Colonies usually have 50-400 bees. Nests are made in underground cavities, wall voids, attics or crawlspaces, etc. Bumble bees are usually not aggressive but when disturbed they will sting. This happens when nests are built in close contact with man. Colonies do not survive the winter. Impregnated queens will overwinter and begin the colony anew each spring.

If you suspect a bee and/or wasp infestation, contact your pest control professional at Willard’s Pest Control Co. for a treatment consultation. Call 425-820-1980.