Bombus occidentalis, Western Bumblebee
- pollinators1
- Oct 15
- 1 min read
Updated: Nov 11
Bombus occidentalis, the Western Bumblebee, inhabits a wide array of environments in western North America—from lowland agricultural areas to high alpine meadows. They are generalist pollinators that contribute significantly to the health and productivity of both Colorado’s native ecosystems and agricultural landscapes. Bumblebees are able to fly in cooler temperatures and lower light levels than many other bees, and their robust, hairy bodies help them efficiently move large quantities of pollen between flowers.
Historically abundant across their range, Western Bumblebees have seen a sharp decline in recent decades due to habitat loss, pesticides, disease, and climate change, and are currently being considered for official listing by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Endangered Species Act.
In 2022, People & Pollinators Action Network (PPAN) championed CO Senate Bill 22-199 at the legislature, in which the CO Department of Natural Resources commissioned a study on our state's native pollinating insects.
Insects, often underestimated, play a remarkable role in our state's landscapes. Not only are they cool, but they are also vital contributors to essential ecosystem services. From pollination to waste decomposition, insects support Colorado's diverse landscapes, from the mountains to the rivers.
Join us as we delve into the world of this fascinating wildlife and learn about the Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Study (2024) report! Check out pages 31-32, 71-74, 105, and 259 to discover more about the Western Bumblebee!
