The word means "pollen basket" and functions to allow the bee to store the harvested pollen until its return to the hive. I watched this one tend to its collection as it visited several blossoms on a backyard tree.
Wow, that is a fantastic macro, so sharp and so much detail! I can't imagine getting close enough for that sort of shot, I am a chicken with flying stinging things
@swchappell This one was so busy with its pollen, it didn't take notice of me. And because it kept wiping pollen off its face and into the ball, it was moving pretty slowly so I was lucky enough to be able to get a decent shot.
great pic sheri!