The Kilted Bee

First Pollen

Monday 19th February 2018

We were pleased to notice the first pollen of the season returning to the hive today. It is still cold, about 6°C, and the snow remains on the hills. However, the bees are bringing in at least 2 different coloured pollen loads today.

Pale yellow pollen: Winter Aconite? A pale yellow (with a hint of green?) one that could be Winter Aconite as there are at least 2 areas of it within 200m of the apiary and a darker orange that may be Snowdrop or the first of the Crocus.

Orange pollen: Snowdrop or Crocus? The loads are not huge, but to forage anything at this stage must be a bonus.

There is even colder weather forecast for next week, but it is good to see the bees making what they can of the very early flowers.

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