Fallen Tree in Byrd Park. WARNING: BEES!

Don't get too close.

A tree near the Round House brought down by a recent thunderstorm provides a spectacle and a danger to onlookers. The majestic ~~elm (oak?)~~ tulip poplar appears to contain an active bee hive somewhere in its rubble. Anyone who lingers near the tree too long will notice angry bees buzzing and swarming around them.

More pictures, warnings, and details after the jump.

While taking these pictures, I didn’t notice any bees at first. Staying outside the cautionary yellow tape, my toddler and I made our way around the fallen tree. Gradually, a few flying insects whizzed by. No biggie, but buzzing sounds could be heard. Then my child started swatting at the air around him.

A damaged cemetary wall is somewhere in this mess.

While watching my kid, I noticed insect activity intensifying in the air. “Go away. Go away,” yelled my suddenly frighten child. Immediately, I ran through the gathering bees and ushered the little guy away from the growing buzzing sound and out of harm’s way. We only moved another 20 feet away from the tree before we were completely out of the bees’ protective area. We didn’t look back. It was a close call and a lesson learned. Not a single sting, thank goodness (except for some mosquito bites).

Avoiding the bees will be hard for some, but BEE forewarned. The tree collided with the wall of the little old Sheilds/Robinson cemetery behind the Round House. It’s tough to see how much damage was done to the bricks, but don’t be tempted to climb on the tree to get a look (DANGER).