In Romania, I was close to a nesting wall of these bee-eaters. They were very lively and flew in and out. It was mating season (May), so the males caught all kinds of insects to offer to their females. All sorts of things were caught, lightning fast they are. Bees, wasps and even dragonflies. Then comes the transfer of the prey from the male to the female. The female eats the prey with relish and a little later mating takes place. The pretty flowers in the background make it extra romantic. This photo shows the male on the left and the female on the right. He has slightly brighter colours than she. She has just consumed the insect offered to her and sat down ready for mating, which took place shortly afterwards.
Netherlands
Netherlands
Germany
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands
Germany
Germany
Germany
Germany