About Northern Bumblebee
A very large, heavily furred bumblebee with orange and black coloring. It is a social parasite that takes over colonies of Bombus polaris. Queens are notably larger than their host species.
Did You Know?
This is the most northerly bumblebee in the world and is a cuckoo bee that kills or subjugates Bombus polaris queens to take over their nests.
How to Identify Northern Bumblebee
Northern Bumblebee (Bombus hyperboreus) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Apidae. Adults typically measure 18-24 mm.
Northern Bumblebee Habitat
Northern Bumblebee is found in heathland habitats, particularly across Canadian Arctic, Greenland, Svalbard, northern Scandinavia, Arctic Russia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Northern Bumblebee Diet and Feeding
Northern Bumblebee is a parasitic species that feeds on or within a host organism. Parasitic insects have evolved specialised adaptations to exploit their hosts while avoiding detection.
Where Is Northern Bumblebee Found?
Northern Bumblebee can be found in Canadian Arctic, Greenland, Svalbard, northern Scandinavia, Arctic Russia, where it inhabits heathland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Northern Bumblebee can be found
Is Northern Bumblebee Dangerous?
Northern Bumblebee belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Northern Bumblebee Role in Nature
Northern Bumblebee plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Northern Bumblebee are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Bumblebee
What does Northern Bumblebee look like?
The Northern Bumblebee typically measures 18-24 mm.
Where is Northern Bumblebee found?
The Northern Bumblebee is found in Canadian Arctic, Greenland, Svalbard, northern Scandinavia, Arctic Russia and typically inhabits heathland environments.
What does Northern Bumblebee eat?
The Northern Bumblebee is a parasite that feeds on a host organism.
Is Northern Bumblebee dangerous to humans?
The Northern Bumblebee belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
What is an interesting fact about Northern Bumblebee?
This is the most northerly bumblebee in the world and is a cuckoo bee that kills or subjugates Bombus polaris queens to take over their nests.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Northern Bumblebee (Bombus hyperboreus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/northern-bumblebee
MLA:
"Northern Bumblebee." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/northern-bumblebee.