Does a bee ever get stuck when he flies (or climbs) into a flower with a narrow opening?
This question arose this afternoon when I watched a bee enter a flower so deeply that only his legs were visible. He remained in that position for some time and then he somehow was able to get back out of the flower. I am still not sure if he was stuck or how he was able to extricate himself. From my perspective, it was a feat worthy of an insect Houdini.
I shot a series of photos that illustrate the whole process. In this case the old adage is true about a picture being worth a thousand words. You will notice that I changed my vantage point part way through the shoot. (I had plenty of time while the bee was inside the flower.) I would also draw your special attention to the details of the last photo in which the bee has to act like a contortionist to get his legs out of the tight spot.
Who knew that bees were so flexible?
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Great series of shots!
Thanks, Dan. It was nice to be there as it happened. I waited for another bee to do the same thing and not a single bee even came by afterwards. There is so much luck involved in getting many of the photos I take.
I would venture to say that about 90% of the battle of getting an awesome shot is being in the right place at the right time. And that simply means being out as much as possible and always having your camera with you! So I totally agree that luck plays a major role!
Wonder how many bristles the bee lost in the process. That’s a great series of shots.
Indeed. I’m not sure he wants to try that too many times.
Wonderful sequence, Mike. Only so much can be attributed to luck. Compliments on your passion, perseverance, and patience!
Thanks.