Unusual Bee-havior

In my last post, I mentioned the abundance of bees in my garden this year. However, I didn't mention some peculiar behavior I witnessed in a couple bees. Today, I found the little fellow above walking on the ground (I almost stepped on him!). He moved across the dirt pretty quick and made it to the plants. He seemed overall disinterested in the flowers, but did stop at one or two. He just climbed around the pumpkin plants with no obvious destination. Two days ago, I witnessed another bee in the same manner (unless it was the same bee). Anyway, any ideas as to what might cause this?

I did a bit of research, and found a couple causes (tracheal mites, temperature, wind, etc.), but my inexperience with bees leaves me scratching my head. I suggested to my wife that maybe it was an older bee who had just reached his time to go. I guess it isn't too big of a deal until I see more like this, but I would still like a clue.


On a happier note, below is a photo of one of my pumpkins. It is about the size of a tennis ball.

And, finally, can anyone identify this little guy. I don't think he does any damage, but, again, inexperience prevails.

Thanks!