Skip to Left navigation Skip to Main content Skip to Footer

University of Minnesota Extension
www.extension.umn.edu
612-624-1222

Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > Insects found indoors > Winged Insects - 1/2 inch and greater > Bumble bees

Print Icon Email Icon Share Icon

Bumble bees

Bombus spp.

bumble bee

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Bumble bee

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension


Description: 3/8 - 3/4 inch long (queens up to 1 inch long). Stout, hairy insects, typically black and yellow or orange.

Where/When: Nests can be found in the ground, as well as structural cavities in the home, such as wall voids. They are active from spring to fall.

Significance: They are valued as pollinators. However, bumble bees are a potential health problem because they sting. Fortunately, they are much less likely than wasps to nest in homes.

More information on Bumble bees

Did this tool help you identify the insect? Tell us.