Sanderson's Bumble Bee

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Bombus sandersoni: //ˈbɒm.bəs ˌsænˈdɜːr.sə.naɪ//

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Summary

Bombus sandersoni, commonly known as the Sanderson bumblebee, is native to North America and is characterized by its size and distinct coloration among queens, workers, and males. It inhabits various ecosystems and feeds on a range of flowering plants. Although not facing major declines, it may be vulnerable to climate change effects.

Physical Characteristics

Queen: 15-16 mm long, 6 mm wide; black with pale hairs on head and yellow on abdomen. Worker: up to 13 mm long, 5 mm wide; similar to queen but has black tip on abdomen. Male: 10-13 mm long, 5-6 mm wide; long hairs, yellow on head and part of abdomen, black at end of abdomen.

Identification Tips

Look for the distinct coloration: queens have yellow on the abdomen and black on the rest of the body; workers have a black tip on their abdomen; males are recognized by their long hairs and yellow markings.

Habitat

Occurs in maritime Canada, temperate forest, Canadian Prairies, tundra, and taiga. Lives in and around wooded areas.

Distribution

From Ontario to Newfoundland, south to Tennessee and North Carolina.

Diet

Feeds on cohosh, fireweeds, kalmia, honeysuckles, bergamot, blackberries, and bilberries.

Conservation Status

No significant declines observed; may be sensitive to climate change compared to other bee taxa.

Health Concerns

Can harbor the bee parasite Nosema bombi.

Tags

• bumblebee
• Bombus sandersoni
• North America
• pollinator