THE BIRD

In mid July, this bird visited the garden. I first noticed it hopping around on the patio among the pots of hostas and thought that it might be injured. But it did fly up into a tree when I walked closer to get a better view. Every day for about two weeks, I would see it in the evening in the same place, just hopping around and seeming to be unafraid of my presence as long as I didn't get within about three feet. And then - one day - it was gone.

I've looked on the internet and in every book I have and cannot find any picture or description matching the color and markings on the pretty little bird. Can anyone out there tell me what it is?

AND THE BEES

One evening in late July, I was sitting on the patio visiting with family when someone noticed an unusually large number of bees above the main pathway in the garden. We got a little closer to see what was happening, and sure enough, it was a swarm of honey bees looking for a place to spend the night. 

I've heard and read about bee swarms, but this was the first opportunity I'd ever had to experience it. They formed a column between two trees and their combined buzzing created enough sound that we had to raise our voices to hear one another. I was so mesmerized by the sight that I almost forgot to take pictures. They settled on the outer part of a branch on a Japanese maple about fifteen feet off of the ground forming a large ball in the shape of a football, quieted down, and then settled in for the night. 

Early the next morning, I checked the internet for someone to collect them since they obviously were from a healthy hive that grew too large and split to form a new colony. They would soon fly off again looking for a new home and if a satisfactory one could not be found, would perish - especially if they were to invade someone's home.

I was able to contact someone who came and collected them and will use them in an educational program in local schools. They will have a nice, clean and safe new home.