Bee Orchid

Bee Orchid. ( Ophrys apifera) has come into flower. I assume most people know that the flower shape is such that Bumblebees try to mate with it. In doing so they collect pollen and, being slow to learn, take that to the next one they land upon.

My impression is that in our Arnside/silverdale area Bee Orchids occur less frequently than the similar, but more delicate, Fly Orchids.

The rain we had two nights ago should now encourage more Common Spotted Orchids to come into flower.