Help identifying this honey bee species.

[Bob Wilson]

My middle son's girlfriend knitted it. Is it a honey bee, or a murder hornet? 

[JojoBeeBoy]

Whatever it is, I wouldn't want to be stung by it.

[The15thMember]

Based on its large size and round fuzziness, I conclude it to be some sort of bumble bee.  After diligently scouring BugGuide for the past 4 hours, I conclude the species is Bombus knitidensis.               

[FloridaGardener]

I have seen a species similar, perhaps Apis knitidensis.  There were a few photos of its life cycle...
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[FloridaGardener]

Development of Apis knitidensis.



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[The15thMember]

I have seen a species similar, perhaps Apis knitidensis.  There were a few photos of its life cycle...

Development of Apis knitidensis.

Your research skills are commendable in acquiring such detailed photographs of this rare insect's life cycle.     Seriously though, that is some awesome amigurumi.   

[Bob Wilson]

Thanks for the laugh, beeks!