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Yellow-faced bumblebee

The Bombus flavidus, or yellow-faced bumblebee, thrives in European heathlands. Notable for its vibrant yellow face, this kleptoparasite cleverly exploits other bees for nesting, enriching its ecosystem by maintaining bumblebee diversity. Its intriguing reliance on host species underscores the complex interdependencies within nature.

8 weeks
Lifespan
28.3495 g
Weight
Length: 3 cm; Height: 3 cm
Size
Yellow, Black
Color
6-8 weeks
Age of Sexual Maturity
Low
Aggression
Data Deficient
Conservation Status
Stable
Population Trend
Characteristics
Bombus flavidus, known as the yellow-faced bumblebee, is distinguished by its predominantly yellow face and black body. It inhabits heathland and moorland across Europe and parts of Asia. This kleptoparasitic species, often found in cooler climates, relies on other bumblebees to rear its young.
Distribution Range of the Yellow-faced bumblebee
Bombus flavidus, commonly known as the yellow-faced bumblebee, is native to the Northern Hemisphere. Its geographical distribution includes parts of North America and Eurasia, specifically found in countries such as Canada, the United States, as well as regions in Northern Europe including the UK, Scandinavia, and parts of Russia.
Yellow-faced bumblebee's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
Bombus flavidus typically inhabits open, grassy habitats and heathlands. These areas are characterized by cooler climates and are often found at higher elevations. The species thrives in environments with a mix of open spaces and floral resources, which are essential for its foraging activities.
Ecological Niche
This bumblebee species plays a critical role as a pollinator in its ecosystem. Bombus flavidus is known to have a parasitic relationship with other bumblebee species, such as those in the subgenus Pyrobombus. It usually nests in pre-existing burrows or above-ground cavities, relying on other bumblebee species to maintain these nests before invading them.