Bumblebees in Salina
Bumblebees are large flying insects covered with densely branched setae (hairs). They are beneficial pollinators for many kinds of crops and ornamental plants. According to the National Wildlife Federation, their short, stubby wings beat at least 130 times per second — and is a crucial part of pollination. This beating vibrates flowers until they release pollen. This is called buzz pollination, a process that helps plants produce more fruit.
Bumblebee Habitat
Bumblebees have small colonies with only a dozen to a few hundred workers. Most bumblebees nest in the ground, using deserted rodent burrows and shallow recesses beneath patio stones, landscaping timber, piles of compost, or within dense patches of grass. Above ground, they may occupy abandoned bird nests as well as outside walls, patio roofing, and decks.
Bumblebee Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Bumblebees are peaceful insects and only sting when they feel provoked or threatened. Most often this happens when their nest is disturbed. Only female bumblebees sting and they can sting more than once. Bumblebees do not form swarms like honeybees and pain from a bumblebee sting is less than a honeybee sting. However, stings can be dangerous on the head or neck, or if an individual is allergic to their venom.
Because bumblebees will sting when threatened, we recommend working with a professional bee removal service rather than trying to get rid of them yourself.
