Gallery: Nature Zen: Orchid Bees are SHINY

  • SHINY BEE ZOMG
    Photos by Sam Droege, USGS
    01

    Exaerete frontalis

    The amazing giant orchid bee, Exaerete frontalis, from Guyana.
  • Shiny bee
    photos by Sam Droege, USGS
    02

    Exaerete frontalis

    Another view of this lovely orchid bee.
  • orchid bee
    photos by Sam Droege, USGS
    03

    orchid bee

    Unidentified Orchid Bee species from Guyana with a lovely purple butt.
  • male orchid bee legg
    Photos by Sam Droege, USGS
    04

    Hind Leg, male orchid bee

    Male Orchid bees collect "perfume" from flowers, and store the waxy stuff in a slot on their hind leg.
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