Bumble Bee(Subfamily Bombinae; Bombus Species)

Color:   Black with yellow stripes.
Legs:   Six
Shape:   Oval
Size:   1″
Antennae:   Yes
Flight:   Yes

Bumble bees can be found in all 50 states.

Although bumble bees are generally considered beneficial (they are important pollinators), they can be considered pests when hives are too close to houses, businesses, or people.

Habits
Bumble bees are social insects and can often be seen in groups gathering pollen and nectar to feed their young. Their name comes from the way bumble bees seem to struggle in flight, due to their large bodies.

Habitat
Bumble bees prefer to nest in the ground in holes previously excavated by other creatures. They can be found anywhere that flowers in need of pollination bloom.

Threats
If a bumble bee nest is built in an area frequently trafficked by humans they can become a pest. Bumble bees will sting to protect their nest. They have a smooth stinger and can sting multiple times. Some people are highly allergic to bee stings.

Prevention
Fill any burrows you find in your yard to prevent bumble bees from moving in. If you find a nest in an area not often used, let it be. Nests will die in the winter. If it becomes necessary to remove a nest, you should call a professional pest control agency.