Bees buzz around flowers and soar through the air. While not aquatic creatures, their interactions with water are more complex and involve surprising survival mechanisms.
Bee Behavior and Water Encounters
Bees do not swim underwater, and prolonged submersion is generally fatal. However, they can navigate the water’s surface for specific purposes or when accidental falls occur.
Bees actively seek water for regulating hive temperature, diluting crystallized honey, and hydrating larvae. They often detect water sources by smell, attracting them to puddles, damp soil, or even chlorinated pool water.
Despite their need for water, bees can easily become trapped. Accidental falls happen when they misjudge a landing, especially on large, still bodies of water like swimming pools. Their thin wings can become waterlogged, making flight impossible. While most bees cannot survive long underwater, they possess adaptations to temporarily withstand submersion. Honeybees can close their spiracles, the tiny openings on their bodies used for breathing, and can survive submerged for about five minutes. Queen bumblebees can survive underwater for up to a week during their hibernation period.
Mechanisms of Water Movement and Survival
When a bee lands on water, its primary method of movement is not traditional swimming but a unique propulsion technique. Bees utilize their wings as “hydrofoils,” beating them to create ripples that propel them across the surface. This “hydrofoiling” allows them to “surf” towards safety. This process is energy-intensive and can only be sustained for approximately ten minutes before the bee becomes exhausted.
A bee’s ability to remain on the water’s surface is aided by its lightweight body and the hydrophobic properties of its exoskeleton and hairs. These water-repellent surfaces prevent immediate saturation, allowing it to rest and move on the surface tension. Although their wings become wet, losing their aerodynamic function, the water’s adhesion to the wings is used to create the necessary propulsion. Bees also possess the ability to right themselves if they flip over.
Helping Bees After Water Immersion
A bee struggling in water is often close to exhaustion, as its wet wings impede flight and its spiracles can only remain closed for a limited time. If you encounter a bee in water, gently scoop it out using a leaf, twig, or a piece of paper towel. This is generally safe, as wet bees are less likely to sting due to their impaired movement.
Once rescued, place the bee on a dry, sheltered surface, ideally in direct sunlight, to help it warm up and dry off. Avoid attempting to separate its wings or manipulate its body, as this can cause further harm.
If the bee appears sluggish or unresponsive, you can offer a small amount of sugar water (one part sugar with one part room-temperature water). Place a few drops near its head. Do not use honey, as it can contain bacteria harmful to bees. Signs of recovery include the bee beginning to groom itself, its wings drying, and eventually, renewed buzzing and attempts to fly.