More bumble bees

It's fair to say that I'm somewhat confused as to the exact species of these bumbles. My certainty goes as far as thinking they're either Bombus terrestris 0r Bombus lucorum...But then again, the bee in the first picture has appears to have a very long tongue, which makes me think it could be Bombus hortotum. Who knows. Whatever they are, they're beautiful!

Until next time, when hopefully I shall be a little less confused!
Claude
x

Caterpillars

As a kitten I spend many a happy hour hunting for caterpillars. I don't seem to find so many these days. It is fair to say that, although I love them, caterpillar identification really isn't my strong point.

Large yellow underwing moth (Noctua pronuba)(?)

No idea what this is, but not an altogether welcome sight on the lavender plant

If you have any idea what species these caterpillars actually are, then please do let me know!

Until next time,
Claude
x

To bee or not to bee, that is the question

So, I spotted this out in the garden last week, but I'm not entirely sure what it is. If you do know what this is then please leave a comment or drop me an email. I'll sleep better in my cat basket if I can resolve this mystery.

Until next time,
Claude
x