**Description:** A large, fuzzy bumble bee with a distinctive gold patch on the front of the thorax and a solid black abdomen.
**Size:** 0.7 to 1 inch long.
**Identification:** One of the largest bumble bees in the region. They have a very long tongue compared to other species.
**Behavior:** Important pollinators of forest wildflowers. They are capable of "buzz pollination" to release pollen from deep-throated blossoms like Monarda.
**Habitat:** Meadows and forest edges.