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Post by houseodessey on Nov 9, 2008 15:21:14 GMT -5
The only time I've ever seen a BB angry is when my dad ran over their nest with a lawnmower. Those were some pissed off bees. They chased him all the way to the house. I've heard that they can sting more than once, unlike poor honeybees who give their lives when they sting, so maybe that's why they have a reputation for being more dangerous? Personally, I love having them around. Johno, I can totally see a little you trying to coerce a BB into making honey. That's hilarious!
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Post by sandbar on Nov 14, 2008 23:09:13 GMT -5
... I think it really takes a lot to get stung by one. If you grab a handful of broccoli that's bolting in preparation to whack it off, be sure to check for bumblebees in the midst of the broccoli blossoms or you might get stung. Don't ask me how I know ...  |
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Post by zephyrbird6a on Nov 29, 2008 1:43:32 GMT -5
Oh I had five species of bumblers in my garden this year, I watched them carefully and could tell the difference between the species. I especially enjoyed the huge ones with black wings that took up residence in one of the chipmunk tunnels that litter the yard. The species was so big you could see it pooping after gathering nectar.
Now, I can hear some folks laughing, but I couldn't believe it. Those were very big bumblers, not aggressive at all. I'd weed all around the butterfly bushes and agastache where they were working, and they didn't bother me at all.
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Post by dogwoman on Nov 29, 2008 14:25:06 GMT -5
I saw a few of those big black winged bumblebees this past summer, Zephyr. I hadn't seen them before. There were far fewer big yellow and blacked striped bumblers this year. Those are the only bees around here which have been aggressive towards me for no good reason. The honey bees do not like my big floppy red garden hat. I had to quit wearing it. They don't come after me when I wear the short brimmed red hat!
Lorna
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Post by zephyrbird6a on Nov 29, 2008 23:49:15 GMT -5
This was the first year I had seen that species, dogwoman. They were fun to watch.
You know, I wonder if the floppy hat looked like a giant blossom, but then it wouldn't stand still and that's why they flipped out. I have nothing red, so can't speak from experience.
I will say the hummingbirds seemed to like stripes better than solid colors. That was odd. they always came close looking at my shirt if it was striped or checked, but not if it was one of my solid colors.
I did notice a return this year of the honey bee to my garden. I was much encouraged, although I haven't minded counting all the different species of other bees that have shown larger numbers in the past 4 or 5 years.
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