What behavior distinguishes a female B. fervidus seeking a host queen in the spring?
Answer
A determined, systematic search pattern flying low along the ground near potential nest sites.
The searching behavior of the overwintering female *B. fervidus* is distinct from general foraging. When searching for a host queen establishing her initial nest—often located near small mammal burrows or grassy tussocks—the female exhibits a quick, direct flight, often appearing more systematic or determined. Observers may notice this individual flying in a search pattern low along the ground or near the edges of open areas, rather than simply moving flower-to-flower as general foragers or workers do later in the season.
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