Female bumblebees possess the ability to sting if they feel threatened or disturbed. They are generally docile compared to wasps and hornets, but they will use their stingers to defend themselves or their colony.
When a bumblebee decides to sting, it is usually because their ground-based nests are disturbed or accidentally dug up. While bumblebees typically are not much of a threat, they can sting multiple times due to having a smooth stinger without barbs, which can amplify the impact of their sting.
Bumble Bee Sting Facts
Who Can Sting: Only females (queens and workers)
Stinger Type: Smooth, barbless (can sting multiple times)
Pain Index: Up to 2 on Schmidt Pain Index
Temperament: Generally docile
