Bees, Wasps, and Bumblebees
A lot of people have difficulty telling the difference between Bees, wasps and bumblebees.
Bees are a bit furry and can vary in color from almost almost black to pale yellow with black bands. They only sting in self defense and will die after stinging as the barbed sting will rip out of the bee's body. Bees feed on nectar and pollen from flowers. A beehive (nest) will continue year after year. There are no feral nests now in New Zealand.
Wasps are yellow and black with no fur. and are longer and slimmer. Wasps can sting multiple times as their stinger has no barb. When wasps are feeding their larvae they will eat protein (meat) later on in the season they will only eat nectar or other sugar sources (Fruit etc). At the end of summer a wasp nest will die off and the queen wasp will hibernate until spring.
Bumblebees are very furry and are short and fat with stubby wings They can also sting multiple times but generally do not sting unless their nest is disturbed. Bumblebees eat pollen and nectar as bees do. Bumblebee nests do not survive winter and the queen bumble bee will hibernate until spring.
Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
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67.2% Yes
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30.2% No
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2.6% Other - I'll share below
Riddle Me That: Ready to Test Your Wits?
If the prisoner tells a lie, he'll be hanged;
if he tells the truth, he'll be beheaded.
What can he say to save himself?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.
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