Where do bumblebees nest?

Bumblebee nests can be found in many different places depending on the species. Most prefer dark and dry cavities underground, while some bumblebees make their nests in cavities above ground.

Nest cavities are usually abandoned rodent holes or under sheds. For the species that nest above ground, they can often be found in bird houses, holes in trees or in thick grass. The queen bumblebee chooses the nest location. She does this by flying in a low zig-zag pattern and stopping to investigate holes until she finds one suitable enough to use as a nest. A healthy nest can have up to 400 bumblebees. This includes the queen and worker bees who help raise young and maintain the hive.