A bee house, often called a solitary bee hotel, provides nesting cavities for non-social species like mason bees and leafcutter bees. Unlike honeybees, these solitary pollinators do not live in colonies or produce honey. Instead, individual females build and provision their own nests in tubes or pre-drilled holes. Correct placement of this habitat is the most important factor for attracting and sustaining a healthy population of these beneficial insects. Optimal placement ensures the nesting material stays dry and the developing young are kept warm, leading to maximum occupancy and increased pollination activity in the surrounding area.
Optimal Orientation and Sunlight Exposure
Solitary bees are cold-blooded, meaning they rely on external heat sources to raise their body temperature for flight. To ensure the bees become active early and begin foraging quickly, the house must be oriented to capture the morning sun. Facing the bee house toward the South or Southeast is the most effective strategy. This placement allows the early rays of sun to warm the structure and nesting tubes, quickly bringing the bees to their required flight temperature of approximately 90°F.
This southern or southeastern exposure also helps dry out the nesting materials. Rain and high humidity can lead to mold and fungus growth inside the tubes, which is detrimental to developing larvae. Receiving direct sunlight early in the day allows nesting cavities to dry rapidly after overnight dew or rain showers. In extremely hot climates, positioning the house to receive some afternoon shade can prevent overheating from the most intense midday sun.
Essential Physical Mounting Requirements
The bee house must be mounted on a sturdy, fixed surface to ensure stability, as movement is a major deterrent for nesting bees. Strong wind or a slight sway can disorient the bees and signal that the site is unsafe for their young. Suitable mounting locations include a solid post, a fence, or the side of a wall; swaying tree branches should be avoided.
Mounting the house between three and seven feet off the ground is recommended. This elevation provides security against ground-level predators, such as mice or skunks. It also protects the tubes from moisture splash-back during heavy rain. Positioning the house near eye level makes it easier to observe bee activity and perform necessary maintenance, like replacing nesting tubes.
Protection from the weather requires a structural overhang or roof that extends past the front of the nesting tubes. This feature shields the entrance holes from direct rainfall and prevents nesting materials from becoming saturated. If the bee house is placed directly under the eave of a building, the natural roof overhang can provide this protection. Selecting a location sheltered from high winds further ensures the house remains dry and stable throughout the nesting season.
Siting Near Necessary Resources
Solitary bees have a short foraging range, so the bee house must be sited within easy reach of the materials they need. The immediate environment should contain a variety of native flowering plants to provide a steady supply of pollen and nectar. Ideally, the house should be located within 100 to 300 feet of these pollen sources to minimize travel distance.
Different solitary bee species require specific building materials to seal their nesting cells. Mason bees need a source of damp, clay-rich soil or mud to cap their nests, which should be available within 20 to 50 feet of the house. Leafcutter bees use pieces of soft, broad leaves or flower petals to line and seal their nesting chambers. Planting appropriate leafy vegetation nearby ensures these materials are readily available for construction.