I like the Carder bee for its orange faux-fur gilet and striped stockings; or perhaps it is sporting the warm collar lapels of a flying ace’s bomber jacket and a striped scarf. Snoopy would approve.
Is it a coincidence that its formal name is Bombus pascuorum — the “field bomber”? Bombus actually means “buzz” not bomb. So whether the buzz of an aeroplane’s engine or the buzz of a fashion catwalk jives more with you, remember to look out for these very hairy bumblebees.
Wardrobe questions aside, we can learn so much about the art of flight by watching nature go about its business.
There is an air show happening every day, if you care to look for it.