Subject: Fuzzy Buzzy Bee
Geographic location of the bug: 23454 – Va Beach, VA
Date: 08/18/2019
Time: 05:19 PM EDT
Your letter to the bugman: I’ve noticed a new pollinator in our gardens this summer but don’t recognize the species. I’m estimating 20-25MM in length, fairly robust, but not “chunky” like a bumble bee. I saved one in our pool and grabbed a couple closeups of their uniquely colored eyes. He/she flew away safely :-]
How you want your letter signed: W/ appreciation
Based on this BugGuide image, we believe this is a Perplexing Bumble Bee, Bombus perplexus. Additional images and information can be found on Discover Life.
Thank you for the response. I see many similarities, however the size, shape, and coloring of the eyes do not correspond. Head scratcher. :-]
Ed Note: See Eastern Carpenter Bee