Table of contents
Introduction
The Tree Bumblebee (Bombus hypnorum) identification is essential for bee enthusiasts and conservationists alike. As one of the most distinctive and recognizable bumblebees in the UK, this species emerges early in spring and plays a crucial role in pollinating wildflowers, fruit trees, and garden plants.
With its rusty-orange thorax, black abdomen, and white tail, the Tree Bumblebee stands out from other UK bumblebee species. You’ll often see them in gardens, woodlands, hedgerows, and urban areas. Unlike many native species, they prefer nesting in bird boxes and loft spaces, making them a fascinating addition to British wildlife.
First recorded in the UK in 2001, the Tree Bumblebee has rapidly expanded across England, Wales, and parts of Scotland. However, habitat loss and climate change pose significant threats to their population. In this guide, you’ll learn how to identify a Tree Bumblebee, differentiate it from similar species, and discover ways to support its conservation.
What Does a Tree Bumblebee Look Like?
The Tree Bumblebee has a three-toned coloration, making it easy to distinguish from other bumblebees. Look for:
- Rusty-orange thorax
- Black abdomen
- White tail
These bees are commonly found in gardens, woodlands, and urban areas, where they play a key role in pollination.
Tree Bumblebee Size and Physical Characteristics
- Queen – 15-20mm; robust with distinct coloration.
- Worker – Smaller than the queen (10-14mm) but has the same color pattern.
- Male (Drone) – 12-14mm; fluffier, with longer antennae and visible facial hair.
Tree Bumblebee Identification & Key Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Tree Bumblebee |
| Latin Name | Bombus hypnorum |
| Size | Queens: 15-20mm, Workers: 10-14mm, Drones: 12-14mm |
| Location | Widespread across the UK, expanding across Europe |
| Active Months | February – October |
| Habitat | Gardens, parks, woodlands, hedgerows |
| Nesting Behavior | Prefers bird boxes, loft spaces, and tree cavities |
| Social Behavior | Social – forms colonies |
| Flora & Fauna | Feeds on brambles, fruit blossoms, dandelions, willow, and clovers |
| UK Status | Common, rapidly expanding range |
Tree Bumblebee vs. Other UK Bumblebees
The Tree Bumblebee is sometimes mistaken for other species due to its coloration. Here’s how to tell them apart:
- Common Carder Bee (Bombus pascuorum) – Lacks a white tail and has a completely tawny-brown body covered in dense fur.
- White-tailed Bumblebee (Bombus lucorum) – Features a yellow band on the thorax and abdomen, unlike the rusty-orange Tree Bumblebee.
- Early Bumblebee (Bombus pratorum) – Smaller in size, with a yellow band. Males often have yellow facial markings.
Learn more in our Bee Identification Guide.
Why Are Tree Bumblebees Important?
The Tree Bumblebee is a vital pollinator that helps maintain biodiversity and supports food production. Its preference for bird boxes makes it one of the few bumblebee species that thrive in urban environments. Unlike some native species, it is a generalist pollinator, meaning it can feed on a variety of flowers, making it highly adaptable.
Despite their adaptability, threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide exposure are impacting their numbers. Taking action now can help protect this essential species.
How Can You Help Protect Tree Bumblebees?
Supporting the Tree Bumblebee ensures a healthier ecosystem. Here’s what you can do:
🌿 Best Flowers for Tree Bumblebees
- Bramble
- Apple and cherry blossoms
- Dandelions
- Willow catkins
- Clover and vetches
🚫 Avoid Pesticides That Harm Tree Bumblebees
- Neonicotinoids (e.g., imidacloprid, clothianidin)
- Glyphosate-based herbicides
- Synthetic pyrethroids
🏡 How to Attract Tree Bumblebees to Your Garden
- Install nesting boxes, as Tree Bumblebees prefer pre-existing cavities rather than digging burrows.
- Leave dead wood and natural cavities undisturbed.
- Create pollinator-friendly gardens to support a wide range of bees.
Encouraging a bee-friendly garden ensures that the Tree Bumblebee and other beneficial species continue to thrive. Explore these WWF tips on creating a pollinator-friendly environment.
This guide provides everything you need to identify and support Tree Bumblebees in the UK. By taking small conservation steps, you can help sustain their population and promote biodiversity in your local environment.
