They've been missing for a couple of years, but today, in the less than glamorous surroundings of a workplace smoking shed, that I came across some beautiful bee orchids in flower.
I had been tipped off, and if it wasn't for my guide who took me there, I wouldn't have seen them in the longish grass.
Relying on a species of bee you don't actually find in Britain to fall for their cunning apine ruse, they are self pollinating in this country, and are not uncommon. But still, I love finding them, after all they are an uncommon sight to me!
It's been a day of intermittent heavy showers, with not much sun around until evening, but in a gap in the downpours, I came across a real bee, and a glittering swollen thighed flower beetle feeding of musk mallow that grows in a scrubby little spot next to a footpath.
I wonder what a sunnier day will bring, as always.
Si
All text and images copyright CreamCrackeredNature 10.06.26
The bee orchid is wonderful. I haven't seen one in a long time. We have a nearby meadow that is full of purple and spotted orchids but nothing more exotic, however still wonderful to see. Your photos as always are great, I do so I've the beetle. Thank you. Sue H
ReplyDeleteBeautiful - I love bee orchids :)
ReplyDeleteThere is something quietly satisfying about finding bee orchids again in such an unlikely corner, especially after a couple of years away from view. The contrast between their delicate, intricate form and the rather ordinary setting makes the sight feel even more striking, almost like stumbling on a hidden detail in plain sight. The added moment of a real bee and the beetle on musk mallow gives the whole walk a fuller sense of life returning between the rain showers, reminding us that even short gaps in the weather can reveal a great deal.
ReplyDeleteThey're such magnificent orchids! I've never seen them, it's great that you found them again. I also like your photo of the Swollen Thighed Beetle, always such an impressive insect
ReplyDeleteLove a Bee Orchid. An explosion of colour. (www.marcheath.blogspot.com) Take care.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely stunning. Thank you so much for sharing. Warm greetings from Montreal, Canada ❤️ 😊 🇨🇦
ReplyDeleteThank you so much all!
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