Nest

of the leaf-cutter bee. Found a dozen of these in the parasol which I opened for the first time today. Never seen a real one before; they are truly remarkable constructions. One has been cut open to show the individul cells where the creature has pupated, overwintered and left. The parasol is covered in minute holes where they have eaten their way out, but I'm delighted to have seen them. Our visitors last summer must have spotted the adults about their egg-laying business, whilst we were in Australia.
Do try LARGE