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bloodhound31
30-01-2011, 05:50 PM
Isn't it funny how you can overlook things that play some of the most important roles in life behind the scenes? Who has seen or even heard of a blue-banded bee, (Amegilla cingulata)? You could say lots of people, but then I am sure there are many more who haven't. I've been around the bush a bit and was raised in wheat country. These bees play an integral part in pollination of 30 percent of crops in Australia!

Full story and higher res photos click here. (http://barryarmsteadphotography.webs.com/expeditionjournal.htm)

The world really is an intriguing place. I hope you enjoy!
Dennis
30-01-2011, 07:31 PM
A lovely portrait Barry – I love watching these industrious insects flitting around the blooms as they keep the wheels of nature turning. They are darned hard to photograph as they only seem to alight for less that 1 second before buzzing off to the next drink!

Cheers

Dennis
leon
30-01-2011, 07:47 PM
Nice one Barry, your right mate, I had not heard of this bee, but we would all be buggered without bees.

Leon
bloodhound31
30-01-2011, 10:24 PM
Thanks blokes. It's just going to be fun trying to confirm why this one is slightly different in size and colour, but still has all the same hallmarks and habits of a blue banded bee.

Baz.
troypiggo
30-01-2011, 10:26 PM
Great capture - one to remember.
Ric
31-01-2011, 12:34 AM
Nice closeup Baz

I have a hive by the dam and it's fascinating to watch their comings and goings.
bloodhound31
31-01-2011, 04:06 AM
Really??!! Photo's?!!!

Baz.
Ric
31-01-2011, 11:11 PM
Here you go Baz.

I'll get some better ones when the hive is really active.
bloodhound31
31-01-2011, 11:37 PM
RIC! You have a HIVE!!??? OF BLUE BANDED BEES???!!! TELL ME MORE!!! :eyepop:

Baz.
Ric
31-01-2011, 11:45 PM
Sorry Baz, they are just normal bee's.

I think our wires got crossed in the threads, sorry to dash your hopes.

Mind you a kept hive of Blue Banded Bees would be quite rare I think.
Ric
31-01-2011, 11:53 PM
Baz, here's an infomative website to help you in your search.

http://bluebandedbees.com/index.htm

Cheers
bloodhound31
01-02-2011, 12:03 AM
Thanks mate. Yes, that's why I got excited, because all references seem to indicate that they are solitary bees. No worries. I shall continue to research. Thanks for the link. :thumbsup:

Baz.