These bees belong to the group of white-tailed species, but as the name suggests, the tail is not entirely white, being more cream in colour. A queen is most likely seen in spring when searching for nest sites. She's large (2cm) with black and golden yellow banding, with a creamy-white tail (buff colour). Workers and male drones vary between 1.4- 1.7cm, but their banding follows the same pattern. Tip: the slight brown tinge to the tail colour may differentiate this bee from a white-tailed bumblebee.

Diurnal

Bees can provide ecosystem services which are vital in sustaining a healthy environment! Attract them to your garden by planting an array of native bee-friendly plants, trees and bushes. Plant for each season. Reduce pesticides and herbicides, or remove them completely. Strim and mow lawns less often when less is in bloom.

It is not recommended to treat flowering garden plants where bees are present. Pesticides and herbicides can impair a bees navigation system, making it hard for them to find the hive; they can be deadly in some cases.