Bombus hypnorum

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A relatively new species to Britain first recorded in 2001 in Wiltshire, but now widespread and common across much of the country. It favours open wooded areas and is particularly  associated with suburban gardens where it is regularly found nesting behind soffit boards, under eaves and other similar places that are situated well off the ground including bird nest boxes and old rot holes in trees.

Bombus hypnorum has distinctive markings with a chestnut coloured thorax, black abdomen and white tail, although dark forms can also occur where the black hairs spread and intermix such that the thorax and abdomen appear all black.

Overwintering queens emerge from hibernation in late February or March with a second generation a few months later in May or June. Late flying queens may still be found in October and November, whereas the males are unlikely to be seen beyond early September.