DSC_1366 Ruderal bumblebee (Bombus ruderatus) female, intermediate morph. Individuals of this species can become the largest bumblebees. Bumblebee tongue length differs from species to species, which is why four species of Bombus were introduced from England in 1885 and 1906 - for the pollination and seed production of red clover. 'Ruderal' refers to species which typically dominate disturbed areas for a few years. It is more common in the drier, warmer inland regions of the South Island. Mackenzie Basin *
DSC_1252 Garden bumblebee (Bombus hortorum) male. This introduced bumblebee is found in the lower North Island and down through much of the South Island, except for north Canterbury and the West Coast. It prefers the cooler, wetter districts. Bumblebee tongue length differs from species to species, which is why four species of Bombus were introduced from England in 1885 and 1906 for the pollination and seed production of red clover. This species is distinguished by its longer tongue (almost the length of its body), for use in deep-flowered plants. It is often seen flying between flowers with its tomgue still extended. This species is typically found near road verges, shingle river margins, improved pasture and in non-native scrub. Dunedin *
DSC_5253 Garden bumblebee (Bombus hortorum) queen. This introduced bumblebee is found in the lower North Island and down through much of the South Island, except for north Canterbury and the West Coast. It prefers the cooler, wetter districts. This species is distinguished by its bright lemon-yellow bands, long head and longer tongue (almost the length of its body), for use in deep-flowered plants. It is often seen flying between flowers with its tongue still extended. This species is typically found near road verges, shingle river margins, improved pasture and in non-native scrub. Otago Peninsula *
