Finding a bee indoors is a common occurrence. While these industrious pollinators are usually found outdoors, their accidental entry raises questions about their survival in an unfamiliar environment. Understanding these challenges helps in assisting them effectively.
Natural Lifespan Versus Indoor Survival
In their natural habitats, the lifespan of bees varies depending on their species and role within the colony. A worker honeybee, for instance, typically lives for about five to seven weeks during active seasons. However, when a bee becomes trapped indoors, its survival time is significantly reduced. Without access to food and water, a bee may only survive for 24 to 48 hours.
Reasons for Limited Indoor Survival
A bee’s limited indoor survival stems from several factors absent in a typical home environment. Foremost among these is the lack of suitable food sources like nectar and pollen, which bees require constantly to fuel their highly active metabolism. A worker bee can deplete its energy reserves quickly, becoming grounded after less than an hour of flight without replenishment. Additionally, indoor air is often drier than outdoor conditions, leading to rapid dehydration for a bee.
Bees also become disoriented and exhausted while trapped indoors. They are naturally attracted to light, often flying repeatedly into windows in an attempt to escape, which consumes energy and can cause injury. This continuous, unproductive flight, coupled with the stress of an unfamiliar and enclosed space, further depletes their limited reserves.
How to Help a Bee Found Indoors
If you find a bee indoors, swift and gentle action can improve its chances of survival. The simplest method is to open a nearby window or door, allowing it to fly out on its own. If the bee is sluggish or not flying towards an exit, you can gently guide it. Place a glass or mug over the bee, then carefully slide a piece of stiff paper or thin cardboard underneath, trapping the bee inside. You can then carry the bee outdoors and release it in a safe, sheltered location, preferably near flowering plants.
For a bee that appears weak, offering a temporary energy boost can be beneficial. Prepare a sugar water solution by mixing one part white granulated sugar with one part water. Use plain white sugar, avoiding brown or organic sugars. Place a few drops of this solution on a non-absorbent surface, like a spoon or a small, shallow dish, near the bee without getting the bee sticky. This provides immediate energy, potentially allowing the bee to recover enough strength to fly away.