Red-tailed Bumblebee.

Despite cool temperatures and a blustery wind today the bumblebees were still out on their business .

The Barberry was again an important stop on the pollen trail and it is a treat to see the Red-tailed,Bombus lapidarius making a regular appearance.This is one of our common species but no less handsome all in black with that orange-red rump.

The queens emerge from hibernation at this time and find a nest to lay several eggs.These eggs hatch to create the workers who then tend to the nest and young.

The Red-tailed can be found in most habitats from springtime right through to the autumn.