Lone Ranger

On quiet days, other blippers post pictures of their pets. My turn

We got home yesterday just ahead of the worst of the storm last night. We are inland, so well protected really, but still it blew open the back door, and the loft hatch, and flung noisy rain against the doors and windows. Enough to make me think a check up in the apiary was worthwhile. Everything that was vertical last week is still vertical in the bright sun this morning. All the hive roofs are still keeping out water. No cause for concern 

I looked under the roof, beneath the insulating blankets and cushions, at the sugar fondant that is sitting above them, available if they want it. They are walking around in it, demonstrating that they are grateful for our thoughtfulness, but not actually consuming any significant quantity, so I must assume they still have stocks inside the hive. Like us, they are happy to hunker down and, listen to the storm raging outside, feeling safe and warm inside sturdy walls

This was the sole individual who set foot outside - and not for long, but I thought her fortitude deserved a photograph. The sun was so bright, and shining right at her, that even a heavily-cropped phone snap has captured some detail. I like the wood textures too. It's all western red cedar - weather-proof, naturally resistant to rot, easy to work with, light enough minimise the grunting and groaning during hive inspections

Strange that the sight of one insect would lift the spirit, but that's how it is with pets