Hi Another Newbie

[Vanessa W]

Dear Anyone

Just joined today, visited the site by accident because I was trying to find out what this insect was that I had seen in my garden today. It was a cross between a bee and a hoverfly, with a long point similar to a hummingbird - Google, I think has identified it is a bee fly, (original name!!). I was a bit mystified because it was darting at leaves not anywhere near any flowers (I read they went for nectar), maybe it was practising. As you can see I am new to the wildlife around me, just getting into it all. I am desparately trying to lose my fear of moths and wasps!!

I am from Hertfordshire and last year started to become more aware of the wildlife around me and yes another devout SpringWatch/Autumn Watch fan. Last year I was following the life of the birds around my district and have learnt a lot by just watching and listening and can now recognise some birds by their sound (I have to start somewhere!). Now its the bugs turn. I am thinking of getting a bee home this weekend but wonder if it is now a bit too late! I already have the burrowing bees in my grass, fascinating to watch!

Hope to chat more soon.

Vanessa

[nightshade]

Hello and welcome,I am trying to ID a small dark bumblebee
that was hovering around some cowslips looked like a hoverfly
but had pollen baskets on its legs
Someone will be along who can help

[Vanessa W]

Thanks, I'll wait and see. Seems to have been a lot of talk about bees lately!!

[Deer Stalker]

Hi Vanessa.

Does sound like a Bee Fly.

[Vanessa W]

Thanks, I wonder why it was stabbing at the leaves - I thought it might be trying to eat other insects, or is that unlikely.

[goosey]

Hello Vanessa, I think Springwatch has done wonders for the nations interest in wildlife over the last few year - I myself can't wait to get my fix of Bill Oddie and team in the coming series.( Have you down loaded a Mini Oddie from BBC Science and Nature? He cracks me up every time he appears from be hind the bush ) Good luck and have fun with your bug identifications in the future - you know where to come with any doubts, it's amazing what people know here and are only too glad to help and share their experiences and knowledge. Welcome to WAB .

[Vanessa W]

Thanks goosey. Yes I know what you mean about the mini oddie!! Looking forward to the new series too.