Bees, like all living organisms, require water for their survival and the proper functioning of their colonies. Water plays several distinct roles within a beehive, and bees actively seek out and collect it.
Why Bees Need Water
Water is essential for bees’ hydration, preventing dehydration during hot conditions or demanding foraging activities. Beyond individual needs, water is fundamental for regulating the hive’s temperature. On hot days, worker bees collect water and distribute it in thin layers over the comb surfaces, then fan their wings vigorously. This evaporative cooling process effectively lowers the internal temperature of the hive, maintaining the optimal range of approximately 93-97°F (33-36°C) for brood development and wax stability.
Bees also use water to dilute stored honey, making it easier for adult bees to consume, especially during colder months when honey can crystallize and become too thick. Furthermore, water is a key ingredient in preparing food for developing larvae. Nurse bees mix water with pollen to create “bee bread,” a nutrient-rich substance, and it is a major component of royal jelly, which is about 60-78% water. This ensures the consistency and proper delivery of nutrients to the young.
How Bees Gather and Use Water
Forager bees are responsible for collecting water, often specializing in this task. They locate water sources and use their proboscis, a straw-like mouthpart, to draw up the liquid. The collected water is then stored in their honey stomach (crop) for transport back to the hive.
Upon returning, these “water carrier” bees offload the water to in-hive workers through a process called trophallaxis, a direct liquid transfer. This water is then consumed directly by individual bees, spread within the hive for evaporative cooling, or mixed with pollen and nectar to create food for larval development and to dilute honey.
Providing Water for Bees
Bees find water in various natural settings, including dew, puddles, edges of streams, or even leaky faucets. They often show a preference for “dirty” water, such as that found in muddy puddles or containing algae, as it may provide essential minerals or have a scent that helps them locate it.
Providing a safe and accessible water source is beneficial for bees, particularly during dry periods or in urban areas where natural sources might be scarce. A “bee bath” can be easily created using a shallow dish, such as a bird bath or plant saucer. It is important to add pebbles, marbles, corks, or other floating objects to the container, allowing bees a safe place to land and drink without the risk of drowning.
Avoid using deep, open containers without landing spots, as bees are not strong swimmers. Chemically treated water, like that from swimming pools, or water containing sugar or honey should also be avoided, as these can be harmful or encourage undesirable foraging behaviors. Placing the water station near flowers that bees frequent can help them discover the source more quickly.