Picture of the day - December 11, 2008

Honeybee "working" on a flower blossom

Photo courtesy of Richard Bougher. Photographer Richard Bougher captured today's intriguing image during a visit to Pittsburgh's Phipps Conservatory. It features two of nature's most beautiful things: a gorgeous red flower blossom and a hard-working honeybee. Now most of us probably agree that flower blossoms such as the one featured here are quite beautiful, but some would argue that a honeybee isn't exactly easy on the eyes. Well, I for one would have to respectfully disagree because those tiny creatures do a world of good for us humans and our animal friends alike. Without the fruits of their labors, many of the food products that we all enjoy, and indeed need in order to survive, simply could not be grown. The fact is, without our honeybee friends scurrying about here and there pollinating our fruit trees, berry vines and vegetable plants, we would quickly find ourselves facing a severe worldwide food shortage. The world's honeybee population is dwindling, and no one seems to be able to pinpoint the reason why. All we know at this point is that their numbers are decreasing each year, and if we fail to find out how to reverse that trend the world as we know it will change dramatically in a relatively short period of time - and not for the better.     Visitor Comments... Name: Phyllis Helton Town: Bristol, VA Beautiful photo. I love that little bee. I don't want to be stung by him, but I love him.     Name: Robert Schwarztrauber Town: Buffalo, NY Richard composed a wonderful image of flower and bee. Brilliant red color with yellow highlights. The sharpness of the bee and petals pop against the nice green background showing a marvelous depth of field. Even the shadow at the base which frames the bee works very well. That's just a really nice photo...one to be proud of. Thanks for sharing!     Name: Paula Lestini Town: Wheeling, WV Gorgeous image, Richard! The color contrast is striking with the intense red of the flower setting the stage for the honeybee busy at work.     Name: Tim Briggs Town: Santa Clarita, CA A fantastic shot...I love the detail and clarity of the honey bee. Well done!   Comment on today's picture  |  View previous "Pictures Of The Day"  |  Submit a photo Why I publish the "Picture Of The Day"