Bees require a consistent supply of clean water for several reasons beyond simple hydration, making the placement of a supplemental watering station a thoughtful task. Worker bees use water to regulate the hive’s temperature, employing evaporative cooling to maintain a stable environment for the developing brood on hot days. Water also serves to dilute stored, thickened honey, making it consumable for adult bees and larvae. Establishing a reliable water source close to their activity area conserves the colony’s energy, as frequent, long-distance flights for water expend significant resources.
Optimal Site Characteristics
Choosing a location that supports the bee’s needs and ensures the longevity of the water supply is the primary consideration. The ideal site should receive partial sun exposure. This helps prevent the water from becoming stagnant while providing enough shade to prevent rapid evaporation during the hottest part of the day. This balance is important for maintaining a consistent water temperature.
The water container must be placed on a level, stable surface to prevent spillage and ensure a consistent water level for landing bees. Stability is paramount because bees land delicately on the edge or on floating material, and any tipping can cause them to lose their footing. To ensure safe access, the water source must include ample landing spots, such as pebbles, marbles, or small pieces of cork. These materials should be arranged so they are partially submerged to create a gentle slope.
Protection from strong winds is another important environmental factor. High winds can disturb the water surface, making it difficult for bees to land safely and collect water. A slight shelter, such as a low shrub or a garden wall, offers necessary windbreaks without obstructing the bees’ flight path. Placing the station near a distinctive landmark, like a brightly colored flower pot, can also help foraging bees locate the water source more quickly and consistently upon their return.
Proximity to the Hive or Garden
The distance of the watering station from the primary bee activity area, whether a hive or a foraging garden, requires strategic placement. For beekeepers managing colonies, placing the station too close to the hive entrance can interfere with the primary flight path, causing congestion and disorientation. A distance of 10 to 20 feet away is often recommended to establish a dedicated flight zone for water collection.
Providing a supplemental source encourages bees to use it, preventing them from seeking out less desirable sources like a neighbor’s swimming pool or pet bowl. Some studies suggest placing the station farther away, perhaps 100 feet or more, particularly in larger apiaries, to encourage natural navigation instincts. Once bees establish a flight line to the water, they are creatures of habit and will return to that spot consistently throughout the season.
For general gardeners supporting local pollinators, the station should be placed near the most visited flowering plants. This ensures that foraging bees, already collecting nectar and pollen, can quickly access water without having to travel far. The most important factor is establishing the station early in the season and maintaining its presence without moving it.
Avoiding Hazards and Contamination
When choosing the final spot, identify and avoid environmental hazards that can harm the bees. The location must never be near areas regularly treated with herbicides, insecticides, or fungicides. Chemical residue can contaminate the water and be carried back to the hive, posing a risk to the entire colony. Even small amounts of runoff from treated lawns or plants can be dangerous.
It is advisable to keep the station out of high-traffic zones, such as human walkways, pet play areas, or paths used by lawnmowers. Frequent disturbance can stress foraging bees, causing them to abandon the site. Placing the station a few feet above ground level, perhaps on a sturdy pedestal, can also help mitigate disturbance from ground predators and reduce accidental damage.
The watering source must be kept clean and should not be near natural standing water or areas prone to long-term stagnation, which can harbor pathogens and attract mosquito larvae. Shallow, open containers without adequate landing pads pose a significant drowning hazard for bees, who are poor swimmers. The water needs to be refreshed daily, especially during hot weather, to ensure a clean supply and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.