The circle of the bees

[Cindi]

In my first year of beekeeping there was a yellow symbol painted on the front of one of the colonies.  One day, I saw a sight, a very strange sight and I thought I should share it with you all, any clues what the bees are doing, forming this circle around the yellow symbol?  I have never figured it out and it still remains a mystery. Beautiful day, wonderful day, wonderful health.  Cindi

[JP]

I've heard that yellow sometimes has an effect on bees.

[UtahBees]

They're saying "dammit, why can't I get the nectar from this flower!?"

[taipantoo]

That's pretty cool.
Not barring out an optical thing, but if the edge of the paint was raised, even just a little, it could have trapped some pollen.
Did this last for a long time or were you just in the right place at the right time?

[Cindi]

Tai, I remember that the bees were only there that one time and I honestly don't know how long they stayed.  It was just such an interesting thing, I had to take the picture.  There was definitely something going on here though, no clue what either.  Have a beautiful and wonderful day, lovin' life.  Cindi

[Mici]

in the spring I've noticed that most bees collect on the yellow painted hive and the yellow painted entrance. it's a warm colour so...that's it I'd say

although to us humans black would be the logical choice to warm up, it's actually somehow different. they've watched a bumblebee on the early morning forage, and he starts foraging at warm coloured flowers to warm up in the morning.