Encountering an unwell bee can be concerning, given their crucial role in pollinating plants and crops. This guide will help you discern whether a bee is simply tired or nearing the end of its life. It also offers ways to provide appropriate assistance.
Observing Bee Behavior
Understanding normal bee behavior is the first step in identifying distress. Healthy bees typically exhibit active, purposeful flight and movements. When a bee is in distress, its movements may become slow, erratic, or uncoordinated. You might notice twitching, a curled abdomen, or an inability to fly or maintain flight. These signs of weakness prompt a closer look to determine the underlying cause.
Key Indicators of a Dying Bee
Certain signs strongly suggest a bee is dying, often indicating irreversible conditions such as old age, disease, or pesticide exposure. A bee nearing the end of its natural lifespan, typically 4-6 weeks for worker bees, may appear visibly aged with a darker, hairless body and tattered wings. Prolonged tremors or uncontrolled shaking, complete loss of coordination (manifesting as stumbling or repeatedly falling over), and an inability to right itself when on its back are severe symptoms. Unresponsiveness to gentle nudging can also indicate a critical state.
Bees exposed to pesticides might display paralysis, disorientation, erratic behaviors, or have their tongue extended. Diseases like deformed wing virus can cause crumpled or misshapen wings, while other pathogens can lead to trembling or paralysis.
Key Indicators of a Tired Bee
In contrast, a bee that is merely tired often displays less severe signs and may be amenable to assistance. These bees typically appear lethargic and slow-moving, often found on the ground or pavement, but their wings remain intact. They might attempt to fly but only manage a short buzz before falling again, or they may rest motionless on a flower or leaf. This exhaustion often results from a lack of energy, possibly due to long flights without sufficient nectar, or cold weather.
Unlike dying bees, tired bees often appear otherwise healthy and are still responsive, albeit sluggishly, to their environment. A resting bee might simply be taking a break, especially queen bumblebees in spring, who can rest for up to 30-45 minutes.
Providing Assistance to a Weak Bee
If you encounter a weak bee that appears tired, you can offer simple assistance. The most common method is providing a sugar water solution. Mix two tablespoons of granulated white sugar with one tablespoon of warm water until the sugar dissolves. Place a small drop of this solution on a non-absorbent surface, like a spoon or a bottle cap, near the bee’s head, ensuring it does not get sticky. Do not use honey, as it can contain pathogens harmful to bees.
After consuming the solution, the bee may recover its energy within minutes to an hour. Gently move the bee to a safe location, such as a nearby flower, away from foot traffic or predators. For bees affected by cold, moving them into direct sunlight can help them warm up and regain mobility.
If a bee is clearly dying with severe, irreversible symptoms, it may be best to allow nature to take its course. If you suspect a larger issue like disease affecting multiple bees, contact a local beekeeper or wildlife expert for further assessment.