I mentioned the orchids at Hexton Chalk Pit earlier in the week. Another plant was much in evidence among the grasses: Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia). This is a deep rooted species which grows on thin chalky soils. Bees were very active in their foraging...

 The Soil Association devotes a page on its website to the benefits of Sainfoin, noting that it was largely overlooked as agriculture industrialised in the post-war period. They advocate sowing it as part of a herbal 'ley' for example with Spring Barley and Fescue grasses. They mention it is an excellent source of protein for livestock, acts as a natural wormer in livestock, reduces bloat and drastically reduces the production of greenhouse gasses such as methane during digestion. 

 Sainfoin is a nitrogen fixer and the deep roots pull up nutrients from the soil as well as making it highly drought resistant. Many legumes are good for honey but O. viciifolia produces higher yields of honey than any other legume. No wonder the bees were so interested in it.