Safety note: Bumblebees sting when threatened.
The American Bumblebee was once one of the most common bees in North America but has declined sharply in recent decades due to habitat loss and disease. Its loud buzz-pollination is essential for tomatoes and other crops.
Habitat
Open meadows, prairies, and agricultural landscapes
Diet
Pollen and nectar from clovers, sunflowers, and a wide variety of flowers
How common
Common
Best time to see a American Bumblebee
The best time to see a American Bumblebee is July–September, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 73,760 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Not certain it is a American Bumblebee? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent American Bumblebee sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted an American Bumblebee?
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5,300+species
63national parks
50states
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