Bumblebees in Louisiana
Most people know that bees are important pollinators for plants and flowers, but did you know they play a vital role in one-third of all food production in the world? Bumblebees are large, slow fliers with fuzzy yellow bodies. They tend to stick close to flowers and their nests, which can be found in protected areas like under old sheds, underneath patio blocks, or under dense shrubbery. They are very docile and will not attack unless threatened. Unlike honey bees, which look very similar, the bumblebee will sting repeatedly, making them slightly more dangerous. Bumblebees tend to build their nests in small cavities inside walls or in abandoned mice burrows.
Bumblebee Nests & Habitat
Bumblebee colonies are small, containing a dozen to a few hundred workers. Most bumblebees nest in the ground, using deserted rodent burrows and shallow cavities excavated beneath patio stones, landscaping timber, piles of compost, and within dense patches of grass. Above ground, they will occupy abandoned bird nests and fiberglass-insulated structural voids associated with outside walls, patio roofing, and decks.
Bumblebee Behavior & Threats
Bumblebees are peaceful insects and only sting when provoked. Most stings happen when their nest is disturbed. Only female bumblebees sting and unlike honey bees, they can sting more than once. Bumblebees can sting multiple times, but they do not form swarms like honeybees. The pain from a bumblebee sting is less painful than a honey bee sting, however, a sting can be dangerous if it occurs on the head or neck, or if an individual is allergic to their venom.
In any case, it’s important to contact your local bee control experts for help with honey bees in your Louisiana property.
Need help with Bumblebees?
We'll call you! Leave your information below.
