July 25, 2024 – Macrostock

### 🐝 Common Carder Bee (*Bombus pascuorum*) – Overview The **Common Carder Bee** is a widespread species of **bumblebee** found throughout **Europe** and parts of **Asia**. It’s easily recognized by its **gingery-brown fur** and its gentle behavior. As one of the last bumblebees active into autumn, it's a vital late-season pollinator. --- ### 🔍 **Identification** | Feature | Description | | --------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Size** | Workers: 10–14 mmQueens: 15–18 mmMales: 13–15 mm | | **Color** | Ginger-brown thorax; variable abdomen (tan, brown, or dark bands) | | **Hair** | Fluffy, with a soft and “carded” appearance (hence the name) | | **Face** | Long-tongued; adapted for deep flowers | > Similar species include *Bombus muscorum* and *Bombus humilis*, but *B. pascuorum* is more common in gardens and urban settings. --- ### 🌼 **Habitat & Flowers** * Found in **gardens**, **meadows**, **hedgerows**, **roadsides**, and **urban areas**. * Forages from a wide range of flowers, including: * **Red clover**, **vetch**, **dead-nettle**, **knapweed**, **lavender**, and **borage**. --- ### 🐝 **Nesting Behavior** * Nests **above ground** in dense grass, moss, or compost heaps. * The queen uses **moss and grass to "card" and line the nest**, giving the species its name. * Colonies are **relatively small** (50–150 workers). --- ### ♻️ **Life Cycle** 1. **Spring**: Queen emerges and finds a nest site. 2. **Early Summer**: First brood of workers hatches. 3. **Mid–Late Summer**: Male bees and new queens produced. 4. **Autumn**: Males and old queens die; new queens hibernate. --- ### 🧠 **Fun Facts** * Unlike honeybees, bumblebee colonies **do not survive winter** — only **new queens overwinter**. * One of the **last bumblebee species active into October/November**, depending on the region. * Considered a **key pollinator** in both wild and agricultural ecosystems. --- ### 🌱 **How to Help Them** * Grow nectar-rich flowers that bloom from spring to autumn. * Avoid using pesticides, especially neonicotinoids. * Leave areas of unmown grass or log piles for potential nesting sites. --- Would you like a comparison between *Bombus pascuorum* and other common bumblebees in your area (e.g., *Bombus terrestris*, *Bombus lapidarius*)?

Bee

Common carder bee (Bombus pascuorum)

Download image 🐝 Common Carder Bee (Bombus pascuorum) – Overview The Common Carder Bee is…

Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius)

Butterfly

Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius)

Download image The Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) is a striking butterfly known for its elegant…

Violet Dropwing (Trithemis annulata)

Darter

Violet Dropwing (Trithemis annulata)

Download image The VioleThe Violet Dropwing (Trithemis annulata) is a striking and colorful dragonfly species…