Common Eastern Bumble Bee - worker

Description:

This is the smallest worker I have ever observed, just under 9 mm. Research suggests that when nectar is scarce, small workers remain alive significantly longer than larger workers. The presence of small workers, and size variation in general, might act as insurance against times of nectar shortage. The Common Eastern bumble bee is the most often encountered bumble bee across much of eastern North America. It has an unusually long flight season and thrives across a wide range of habitats and climates ranging from the cold temperate zone to the warm subtropics.

Habitat:

Eastern North America, from Ontario to Maine and south to south Florida. Widely used for greenhouse pollination in California and Mexico, far outside its native range. Wide variety of habitats where pollinating plants are found.

Notes:

Spotted nectaring on raspberry blossoms.