Pollinators, particularly bees, require a consistent source of water for survival and hive maintenance, especially when temperatures rise or during periods of drought. A bee bath offers a straightforward solution to meet this need, providing a safe and accessible drinking station right in your garden. By creating this simple water source, you support the health of local bee populations, which are fundamental to the pollination of flowering plants and food crops.
Defining the Bee Bath and Its Purpose
A bee bath is a shallow receptacle of water designed to allow bees to drink without the risk of drowning. Unlike a typical bird bath or a swimming pool, which presents a large, deep surface area, the bee bath incorporates numerous landing platforms. Bees are unable to swim and can drown in even a quarter-inch of water, which is why a specialized design is necessary for their safety.
Bees collect water for several functions beyond simple hydration. Water is transported back to the hive where it is used to dilute crystallized honey, making the food source digestible for the colony. Nurse bees also require water to produce the glandular secretions needed to feed developing larvae, including the protein-rich substance known as royal jelly.
During hot weather, worker bees use water as part of the hive’s air conditioning system. They deposit droplets of water inside the hive and fan their wings, creating an evaporative cooling effect that regulates the colony’s internal temperature. Providing a reliable water source ensures these processes can continue uninterrupted.
Essential Steps for Creating a Bee Bath
The construction of a bee bath begins with selecting a shallow container that will serve as the basin, such as a ceramic saucer or a glass dish. It is best to avoid metal containers, which can heat up quickly in the sun, or certain plastics, which may leach chemicals into the water. The container can be placed directly on the ground or elevated slightly using a plant pot turned upside down as a pedestal.
The next step involves filling the basin with materials that act as landing spots for the bees. These items must be arranged so that their surfaces remain above the water line, creating dry perching areas where the bees can safely land and access the water with their proboscis.
- Smooth river stones
- Marbles
- Small pieces of cork
- Clean terracotta shards
Once the landing materials are in place, the basin is filled with fresh water, taking care not to completely submerge the stones. Some beekeepers suggest adding a small pinch of uniodized salt to the water, as bees appear to prefer slightly mineralized water sources.
Placement, Safety, and Ongoing Maintenance
The placement of the bee bath is important for its utility, with an ideal location being near flowering plants that bees frequently visit. Choosing a spot that receives morning sun can help keep the water from becoming too cold, which could reduce a bee’s ability to fly. However, placing it in a somewhat protected or partially shaded area can help reduce the rate of water evaporation, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
For safety, the bee bath should be positioned away from areas of heavy human or pet traffic to prevent disturbance. It is also important to ensure that no insecticides or other garden chemicals are used near the water source, as these can easily contaminate the water and harm visiting insects.
Ongoing maintenance is necessary to keep the water fresh and prevent the development of pests. The water should be replenished daily, or at least every other day, to ensure a constant supply and to discourage mosquitoes from laying eggs. A thorough cleaning of the dish is recommended once a week to scrub away algae buildup and sediment, ensuring the bee bath remains a clean and healthy resource.