About Western Bumble Bee
A once-common bumble bee of western North America that has experienced dramatic population declines since the late 1990s. They nest underground in abandoned rodent burrows.
Did You Know?
Their catastrophic decline is linked to a pathogen accidentally spread through commercial bumble bee rearing facilities.
How to Identify Western Bumble Bee
Western Bumble Bee (Bombus occidentalis) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Apidae. Adults typically measure 10-22 mm.
Western Bumble Bee Habitat
Western Bumble Bee is found in mountains habitats, particularly across Western North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Western Bumble Bee Diet and Feeding
Western Bumble Bee feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Western Bumble Bee Found?
Western Bumble Bee can be found in Western North America, where it inhabits mountains environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Western Bumble Bee can be found
Is Western Bumble Bee Dangerous?
Western Bumble Bee 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.
Western Bumble Bee Role in Nature
Western Bumble Bee plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Western Bumble Bee
What does Western Bumble Bee look like?
The Western Bumble Bee typically measures 10-22 mm.
Where is Western Bumble Bee found?
The Western Bumble Bee is found in Western North America and typically inhabits mountains environments.
What does Western Bumble Bee eat?
The Western Bumble Bee feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Western Bumble Bee dangerous to humans?
The Western Bumble Bee belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
Is Western Bumble Bee endangered?
The Western Bumble Bee is currently classified as Vulnerable by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.
What is an interesting fact about Western Bumble Bee?
Their catastrophic decline is linked to a pathogen accidentally spread through commercial bumble bee rearing facilities.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Western Bumble Bee (Bombus occidentalis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/western-bumble-bee
MLA:
"Western Bumble Bee." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/western-bumble-bee.