July 13, 2026

The Two-spotted Bumblebee (Bombus bimaculatus) atop a Purple Cone Flower (Echinacea purpurea), looking a bit like a cuddly stuffed animal. Its name comes from the two yellow spots at the top of its abdomen.

For this Bumblebee, nectar is a source of carbohydrates and energy, and the protein rich pollen is brought back to their nests for the developing larvae.

Their nests are usually built in abandoned animal burrows, or in hollow logs and brush piles. The nests that are underground are typically 6 inches to 12 feet underground with long entry tunnels, and can be difficult to spot. If you find one near your home, consider that these bees are gentle and highly beneficial pollinators for your garden and fruit trees.

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