Nature Diary Alert!
Just had a most intriguing conversation with the Secretary of the South Riding Beekeepers Association.
Because a thing (see below) has appeared in our garden today. The first clue as to all the activity was wandering back into our bedroom (having just got out of the shower) to hear what sounded like three HUGE wasps buzzing about in the window. *gulp*
I beat a hasty retreat, of course, but the first indication that they weren't actually wasps was going back in (when clothed and booted) to find that all three had made their way back out again. Wasps are usually too stupid to do that.
We had a look where the wasps' nest used to be - nope, no wasps. Then, a couple of hours later, I spotted the thingy.
I had a closer look (aren't I brave?) The weird rugby-ball shape hanging from that bush is a swarm of honey bees! If they are still there this evening/tonight, the beekeepers are going to come and take them to a new home. If you click on the image, it should let you into the gallery so you can see it better.
Because a thing (see below) has appeared in our garden today. The first clue as to all the activity was wandering back into our bedroom (having just got out of the shower) to hear what sounded like three HUGE wasps buzzing about in the window. *gulp*
I beat a hasty retreat, of course, but the first indication that they weren't actually wasps was going back in (when clothed and booted) to find that all three had made their way back out again. Wasps are usually too stupid to do that.
We had a look where the wasps' nest used to be - nope, no wasps. Then, a couple of hours later, I spotted the thingy.
I had a closer look (aren't I brave?) The weird rugby-ball shape hanging from that bush is a swarm of honey bees! If they are still there this evening/tonight, the beekeepers are going to come and take them to a new home. If you click on the image, it should let you into the gallery so you can see it better.