Global Warming Busy Bee Scare

Bumblebee on broad beans last June

Forgive the tabloid headline but I did see a bumblebee at work today, which confirms that they are the hardiest of our bees, the bee for all seasons. It was feasting on the flowers of a shrub I have failed to identify - probably non-native - which has suddenly burst into full bloom. Could this be the first premise of Spring, or is this just one of Nature's ruses to get us all out in out t-shirts before pouncing on us (and on unsuspecting insects and other animals) with a bout of snow, ice and cold ? Heaven knows we could do with some real cold weather just now. Plants are due a rest, but they have been continuing their growth recently, albeit more slowly than in full summer. It will be interesting to see whether our vegetation will find its bearings over the next few months. My own garlic is growing away merrily as are the broad beans and onions. I should start taking bets as to when the first flowers will appear on these legumes and when the next first bumblebee of the year will be seen. Perhaps I should write to The Times and start a first bumblebee craze ? Cuckoo enthusiasts sensing an opportunity to get in with a very early bird will probably be disappointed. Cuculus canorus is no doubt still enjoying himself somewhere in Africa.