I only have a few photos taken at the garden (these photos are from the beginning of November). Lining one side of the parking lot are flower beds, and beyond is the garden. The garden mums (maybe Harmony mums) were looking very healthy. The sun was shining which felt so good and I didn’t need a coat. At first I thought there were dozens of bees buzzing from one flower to another, and was again surprised as they should all be safely tucked away for the winter. I looked closer and knew they weren't bees, for all the similarities. They were Drone flies. The Drone fly has brown
and orange markings, and it looks very similar to a male Honeybee but is
harmless. This mimicry helps protect it from predators while it gathers nectar.
The key differences between this fly and the male Honeybee include its lack of a stinger and ‘waist’,
and only one pair of wings. You can usually find them in gardens and urban
areas. The Drone fly not only mimics the Honeybee in looks, but also in the way
that it moves about, following the same flight patterns. Many of our
often-overlooked insects are important pollinators for all kinds of plants,
including those which we rely on like fruit trees. As I nibble on my apple, I will think of them very kindly. Splendid little things for what they give us, and we must do our utmost to protect them, along with all the other hardworking pollinators. The Painted Daisies weren't as abundant but still beautiful and healthy looking. The Drone flies were enjoying them too.
A very enjoyable trip to the garden and a nice surprise. This was one of those flying visits.Another flying visit was to our favorite bakery of the moment, the Chateau de Chantilly Cafe, for a pastry and a cup of coffee. Santa was at the door greeting us.
Thank you for visiting.
Have a great day.
I only have a few photos taken at the garden (these photos are from the beginning of November). Lining one side of the parking lot are flower beds, and beyond is the garden. The garden mums (maybe Harmony mums) were looking very healthy. The sun was shining which felt so good and I didn’t need a coat. At first I thought there were dozens of bees buzzing from one flower to another, and was again surprised as they should all be safely tucked away for the winter. I looked closer and knew they weren't bees, for all the similarities. They were Drone flies. 
Drone Flies!! Imposters!!
ReplyDeleteI've planted my garden so that many winged creatures can find food, and in autumn the birds take the seeds from the flowers... you're right, we need to improve our gardens with an abundance of flowers, because we can do that ourselves.
ReplyDeleteA coffee at your favorite bakery sounds heavenly.
Wishing you a happy Advent season.
Viola
Lovely flowers! Have a nice day!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos from the garden, I love the flowers and the Santa. Take care, have a great day!
ReplyDeleteI wonder how many times I've seen a drone fly and mistaken it for a honey bee. The flowers are pretty. It's always nice to see Santa too
ReplyDeleteThe flowers and bees are beautiful, Denise. A joy to see.
ReplyDeleteHow beautiful these flowers are, still blooming at the beginning of November! And how interesting with these bees! And at the same time, Santa Claus is greeting you for coffee.
ReplyDeleteThe trip to your place was wonderful!
Have a lovely day!
hugs Elke
It's lovely to see flowers and even better to see their helpful and ever welcome pollinators.
ReplyDeleteInteresting info about the drone fly.
ReplyDeleteI hadn't known about drone flies. I'll have to see if we have them here. What a beautiful sight the flowers are on a November day.
ReplyDeletePretty flowers! I believe the drone fly is native, unlike the honeybee.
ReplyDeleteSanta looks a little sad. I hope you smiled at him and cheered him up.
Gorgeous flowers...this is the best time to see the color before we have none!!
ReplyDelete