About Bombus rufocinctus Cresson, 1863
Bombus rufocinctus Cresson, 1863 is a species of bumblebee commonly known as the "red-belted bumblebee". It is native to North America, with a wide distribution across Canada and the western, midwestern, and northeastern United States. It may also be found in Mexico. Queens of this species measure 1.6 to 1.8 centimeters in body length, and are just under a centimeter wide at the abdomen. Their body is black, with scattered gray and yellowish hairs on the head. The abdomen has many bright yellow hairs, plus distinct areas of reddish hairs. Workers measure 1.1 to 1.2 centimeters in body length, and are half a centimeter wide at the abdomen. Workers are generally similar in appearance to queens, but may have longer hairs. Males measure 1.2 to 1.3 centimeters in body length, and are half a centimeter wide at the abdomen. Males are mostly black, with more yellow markings on the head and abdomen than queens and workers. This species has four genetically controlled color polymorphisms: the second and third abdominal terga can have either red or black hairs, and the fourth and fifth abdominal terga can have either yellow or black hairs. This is a small, short-tongued bee that inhabits wooded areas and their surroundings, and can also be found in urban parks and gardens. It feeds on a range of plant types, including chicories, snakeroots, strawberries, gumweeds, sunflowers, goldenrods, clovers, vetches, and goldeneyes. It typically builds its nest on or above ground level.
