Cuckoo Gypsy Bumblebee
Cuckoo bumblebee, parasitic bumblebee
Psithyrus spp.
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Dive into the world of the cuckoo gypsy bumblebee, a unique member of the bumblebee family that has a very special way of life. Unlike other bees that gather pollen and nectar to feed their young, cuckoo bumblebees don’t build their own nests. Instead, they sneak into the nests of other bumblebees and lay their eggs there. This might sound a bit sneaky, but it’s just how cuckoo bumblebees survive! These bees are found in various parts of North America and Europe, thriving in environments where other bumblebees live.
Cuckoo gypsy bumblebees are fascinating because they rely entirely on the hard work of other bumblebees to raise their young. The female cuckoo bumblebee is equipped to fight and take over a nest by fooling other bumblebees into thinking she belongs there. Once sheโs in, she lays her eggs, and when they hatch, the host bumblebees unknowingly feed and care for the cuckooโs larvae. This incredible adaptation shows just how diverse and interesting the world of bees can be!
Cuckoo Gypsy Bumblebee
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