Spiranthes cernua [pollination & insect interaction]

This Bumblebee [Bombus impatiens] was found on a lone Spiranthes cernua on a cold windy October day, from several years ago. The flower stalk had been knocked over in a storm and was well past prime, but there on the ground was this lone Bumbleebee trying to get every last bit of nectar out of each flower. Even when I uprighted the the plant, it never left, such was its determination to to find food for a nest somewhere out there in the forest. It also had a Sweat Bee for a companion. It really left an impression on me that I will never forget. [above & below]
This Northern Crab Spider [ Mecaphesa asperata] has managed to squeeze himself into the tiny flower of Nodding Ladies Tresses orchid [Spiranthes cernua], to grab an unsuspecting victim. Dauphin County. Pa. 9-14-24
This Northern Crab Spider [ Mecaphesa asperata] has managed to squeeze himself into the tiny flower of Nodding Ladies Tresses orchid [Spiranthes cernua], to grab an unsuspecting victim. Dauphin County. Pa. 9-14-24
Bumblebee [Bombus] and Sweat Bee [Augochlorella aurata]. Searching fo nectar on the last remaining flowers of Nodding Ladies Tresses [Spiranthes cernua]. Dauphin County, Pa. 10-3-23
Bumblebee [Bombus] and Sweat Bee [Aygochlorella] on Nodding Ladies Tresses [Spiranthes cernua]. Dauphin County, Pa. 10-3-23
Bumblebee [Bombus] and Sweat Bee [Augochlorella aurata]. Searching fo nectar on the last remaining flowers of Nodding Ladies Tresses [Spiranthes cernua]. Dauphin County, Pa. 10-3-23
After another wonderful year studing orchids and their pollinators I was excited to see this lone Bumblebee [Bombus]. still attracted to what is left of a Nodding Ladies Tresses orchid [Spiranthes cernua]. When first seen, the plant was found laying flat on the ground and the bee was "working" each flower looking for nectar. The plant was proped up in hopes of it better being able to release its seeds, as it is the only orchid of this kind in the area. When carefully lifted off the ground, the bee never stopped searching each flower, it was so intent on its quest. Bombus is a known pollinator of Spiranthes, a great way to end the season! Dauphin County, Pa. 10-3-23