When we planted our butterfly garden, we underestimated how many bees we would get. For some reason, it did not click that we would end up with so many other pollinators. This is significant because our children are very afraid of bees and wasps. In fact, one has a mild allergic reaction when stung. So when we noticed tons of bees, we worried a little bit, since this garden is in our backyard.
But it turns out, the bees are a great addition. Our children are not afraid of them anymore. In fact, they are researching types of bees as a result. And there’s plenty to research. Florida has more than 300 types of bees living here. Even knowing this, the kids still play in the yard, no problem.
And the bees have turned into great company when doing menial tasks like weeding. They buzz all around me, curious. But they never sting. Watching them provides a lot of entertainment.
We will continue to show you the many bees that enter our garden. This one is my personal favorite. My hubby had a great time watching this bee then editing this clip for you in slow motion. 🙂
It is huge. It looks like it should not be able to fly. And it just seems so fuzzy. Don’t you want to touch it? My husband, did. He reached out for a flower and ran his finger across the bee. He says it felt soft and fuzzy. Luckily the bee did not seem to mind. But we still try and give them their space, so they can enjoy the garden and we can enjoy them.
I am not a bee expert at all. I hope at some point to have a bee expert come to the garden, and fill us all in on our amazing pollinating friends.
In the meantime here is a little more on Florida Bumblebees.
