Shrill Carder Bee - Bombus sylvarum
Habitat: Extensive areas of flower rich grassland
Size: Queen 17mm, workers and males 11-14mm
Species Account: Formerly widespread and reasonably abundant in the UK, Bombus sylvarum has undergone a severe decline and is now found at only a handful of sites in southern England and Wales. The common name of Shrill Carder Bee comes from the noticeably higher pitched buzzing made by this species in flight. The pattern of pale yellow hairs interrupted by two black bands, and the red tail, make this species instantly recognisable in the UK. Males, workers and queens are all alike in colouration.
