The Birds and The Bees, Andy Sands, May's meeting

 Our thanks go out to Andy Sands for his spectacular presentation on British Birds and Bees last month. Everyone one of Andy’s photographs captured an amazing shot, full of detail and colour, he certainly pays attention to detail. Andy  told us how he has been interested in natural history since a child and now travels across the UK photographing wildlife. Andy’s knowledge of his subjects was also very impressive, telling us about their habitats, migration patterns and their nest building skills.

It was interesting to hear that photographers often place their own natural perch, this could be tree branch or fence post, in the area they expect the birds to be. This helps to obtain a better shot and at a distance close to the photographer.

Andy’s photographs of bees were equally as impressive as the birds, I never knew there were so many species. The close up pictures reveal the wonderful detail of the bees’ markings and their delicate wings. Andy told us how many bee species do not live in colonies but live solitary lives nesting in a variety  of places including trees and even the underground. Andy did mention that all bees have stings!