Sunday, September 14, 2025

Bumbling Along







I wondered why this bottle gentian had a black center, and then realized it was a bumblebee enjoying some nectar that it had worked hard to reach. The flowers around it show how  tightly closed the petals usually are.








      

 











Once the bee has left, the flower shuts closed again, making it only available to bumblebees that are strong enough to force the petals apart. Smaller insects don't get to enjoy the feast - an understated "Bumblebees Only" sign.




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