What to look for: These fluffy bumblebees are covered in gingery-brown hairs with black abdomens that pale with age
Favourite plants: Flowers with tall tubular florets, such as heather, clover, lavender and other wildflowers
Making a nest: Nest in colonies in natural holes or bird boxes
When active: Spring to autumn
Where seen: Across the UK
Common Carder Bee
The common carder bee is one of the most widespread in Britain and can be been in gardens from Cornwall to Scotland. These fluffy bumblebees are covered in gingery-brown hairs with black abdomens that pale with age. They live in colonies and often adopt unoccupied bird boxes as a nest. Their long tongues make them perfect for feeding on flowers with long tubular florets, including as heather, clover and lavender.