A California wildlife employee gained a tiny passenger during a field visit in the Sierra backcountry. The encounter turned into a close-up wildlife moment filmed from just inches away, giving viewers an amazing view of a bumblebee.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife shared the nine-second video on Aug. 5. The agency identified the visitor as a yellow-faced bumblebee, or Bombus vosnesenskii.
The worker kept a steady arm while the bee explored. CDFW did not report any stings or injuries in its post.
The department said the staff member was “bee friended,” but it did not name the employee or disclose where in the Sierra the field visit occurred.
A bumblebee explores the worker’s arm
California Department of Fish and Wildlife Facebook
The official CDFW Facebook reel shows a black-and-yellow bee crawling down a hairy forearm toward the wrist, set against a wooded backdrop.
CDFW said native pollinators like this one are important to California’s ecosystems. The agency described yellow-faced bumble bees as generally friendly, although they can sting if provoked.
The U.S. Geological Survey describes Bombus vosnesenskii as a common, dark western bumble bee largely restricted to coastal and Sierra ranges.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources says the species is native to the West Coast of North America. It can be recognized by its yellow face and a yellow band near the rear of its body.
What to do if a bumblebee lands on you
If a bumblebee lands on you, it is advised to remain calm and avoid sudden movements. A bee will usually leave on its own, though it can be gently brushed away if needed.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers similar advice for a single sting from a stinging insect. Its guidance says to remain calm and still because swatting may cause a sting.
If a sting occurs, the CDC recommends washing the area with soap and water, applying ice and watching for an allergic reaction. For those who are allergic, anaphylactic shock requires immediate emergency care.