We have a bumble bee nest at the bottom of the garden. Well, to be truthful it’s actually in next doors garden in an old bird house that someone has fastened to the fence, but we’ve got all the busy bees flying around on our side.

Apparently they are very rare to have and see. We should feel blessed that they have chosen this spot as they will fertilise all the local flowers.

Its meant I’ve learnt a thing or two (just to be on the safe side). The ones buzzing around are all males who don’t sting. There will be around 500 bees in the nest around the queen and it will last for several months until she either dies off or moves on to a new location. They love dark quiet corners and favour holes in trees or empty bird boxes. They are becoming rarer.

Should you disturb one then yes they will swarm and sting, so best not to, nor apparently should you breathe (yes breathe ) on one. Apparently they may see it as an aggressive act and swarm and sting you. I guess however it might depend on what you’d been eating and the state of your breath. I wonder if they like garlic?

So, lucky us, 500 bees buzzing across the garden.

Oh and Willow thinks it’s great to try to bat them in the air