Bee orchids

[Pablo]

I'd thought I'd share some pics of our local Bee orchids. Although not rare, I think they're quite localised. I understand that sometimes it could be a number of years before they appear in the same spot again. The petals mimick the female bee to attract male bees for pollination. They make a really attractive wildflower.

Pablo.

 

[British Red]

Fantastic pictures pablo - thanks

Is it me or can you see Gordon the Gopher in the top one?

Red

 

[JonnyP]

Fantastic pictures pablo - thanks

Is it me or can you see Gordon the Gopher in the top one?

Red

Ha ha, yes.....
Nice find Pablo...Have never seen one myself... Did find a common spotted today, thats all I ever find....

 

[tomtom]

That's fantastic, I found my first wild orchid this year (early purple I think) having never looked before which was cool. Thanks for showing your photo what sort of areas would these be found in.

 

[Pablo]

Sorry for the delay in replying.

I think they're found well drained turf. These were found on meadow-type land. Apparently they also grow on limestone, calcareous dunes or in open areas in woodland.

Thanks you all for your comments.

Pablo.

 

[familne]

Stunning!

Don't get these in Scotland

 

[tommy the cat]

Cool pics mate will have to go and have a look at Wenlock Edge by me as they are found there, which is close to me......didn't realize they were out yet better go and have a look see.
Saw this monday havent looked it up yet but presumably an orchid?!

Actually looking at that not so sure I'll go get my book....Dave

 

[Pablo]

Looks suspiciously like an antirrhinum. Perhaps a garden escapee?

Pablo.

 

[familne]

That looks like a trefoil Dave, or maybe a vetchling

 

[British Red]

I'd go for a (birdsfoot ?) trefoil too. This is a picture of one from this year

Red

 

[Pablo]

I reckon that's right. Birds-foot trefoil.

 

[tommy the cat]

Sorry thanks for the correction!
Actually I'm sure I have got a pic of a yellow orchid but didnt look at the pic too closely b4 posting as I was on the way out to look at a badger set.
LOve the few orchids I have seen even the early purple orchid which I suppose is as common as muck must get over to look for the bee orcid
over the quarry at the weekend.
Ta Dave