Waiting for the first bumblebee to present itself upon a favorite flower, is an optimistic delight. Hovering and buzzing wings. A wonder with the weight of pollen. Flying, let alone hovering, seeking, and finally choosing ideal blooms that come in line with fussy expectations.
Bumblebees are certainly rather incredible. In theory, they cannot fly, but Nature’s generosity allows them to be greeted by blooms as there is a distinct mutuality of mission; spreading and collecting pollen.
Having written about bumblebees many times, I never cease to be enlightened by these beautiful but gentle giants.
They sting not. Some say they should be called humblebees.
They exchange a mutual courtesy, never seemingly aggressive to one another. Should two land upon a small flower, a polite parting is exchanged; almost ‘have a nice day’.
Bumblebee Rescue!
I feel they are certainly worthy of being recognized as one of Nature’s special creatures. Hence perhaps a sense of pleasurable ‘duty’ to rescue such delightful beings. On numerous occasions a bumblebee has been so weighed down with pollen, falling over, often on its back.
Last year, walking along a sidewalk, I noticed a bumblebee loaded with pollen, legs slowly moving, knowing not what to do. With some assistance, I managed to elevate it onto my finger allowing it to be ultimately placed upon a flower.
Another example is how fussy they are. One such fellow that crawled on my hand and was introduced to a small variety of blooms, kept turning around, crawling up my hand, signalling such a bloom did not meet its expectations.
Eventually, a potential flower was found. I turned it around, formally introducing it to a bloom that came up to its expectations. With what seemed like some form of acknowledgment and an impression of gratitude.
When seen by people during such a rescue operation their looks are a balance of curiosity and wonderment. Especially when many folks think they sting.
I do trust this story has provided a buzz.
