(THE CONVERSATION) – As trees and flowers blossom in spring, bees emerge from their winter nests and burrows. For many species it’s time to mate, and some will start new solitary nests or colonies.

Of all the unique flying, buzzing specimens out there, bumblebees are one of the most mesmerizing…even when they’re engaging in surprising acts. Bee mating happens out in the open, and a queen’s ...