Am hoping this is Bombus hypnorum?

[Dillybythesea]

Not great pics I'm afraid but it was moving around low down near a willow, on the edge of woodland - and buzzed off when I closed in. I read Jason/ Janet's thread from last year and see that it's mapped for being here on the south coast. Hope this is it. Thanks for any help - Dill

[nutmeg]

I've never seen on in the flesh - but this definitely fits the ginger thorax and white tail description. Nice one to see

[Jason Green]

Morning Dill,

It certainly is! Well done

Take care,

Jason

[Dillybythesea]

Thank you Jason! And Nutmeg! Hurrah. Happy Easter - Dill

[Jason Green]

Happy Easter to you too

[JRsbugs]

Nice find!

I have them here too now, first saw them last year but only three times so I'm hoping they are still around and breeding well.

First looked to be a queen on 13th & 14th June, then a smaller worker on 12th August.

Janet

[Dillybythesea]

Thanks Janet. I shall have to look into the differences in the queen and workers then because I'll be watching out for them in that same spot from here on in, that's for sure! ATB, Dill

[Jason Green]

Afternoon Dilly,

I've only seen the Queen - here she is:

Queen Bombus hypnorum

She's big and slightly clumsy in-flight - akin to B. terrestris in my opinion. She also shows a good contrast between the non-subjective, unmistakable colours.

[Dillybythesea]

Wow Jason - the colour is really striking isn't it. And I know what you mean about the big clumsy flight some bees have versus others. I shall keep it all in mind! (I'd add a smiley face but don't seem to have any showing to click on!)