Ophrys apifera

Bee Orchid - can grow to a height of 50 cm. They flower from April to May in the Algarve where these pictures were taken. Only found in the south eastern areas of England and some coastal areas of Wales. They are uncommon in Ireland. Although mostly self-pollinating they can be pollinated by bees in the Mediterranean area. They can even give off a scent that mimics the scent of a female bee! It is also believed that male bees would preferentially select orchids with the most bee-like appearance and attempt to mate with them, transferring pollen in the process.

John Foss Nature Photography Birds Wild Flowers Wildlife Butterflies Moths Greaghnafarna Ballinaglera Ireland Leitrim Derby England UK Algarve Portugal