Bee-Friendly, Smart Way To Provide Water for Our Pollinators

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Posted by @nativeplantlover on
Everyone knows that bees, wasps, and other small insects work hard to collect nectar and pollen, but did you know that, like the birds, they also need a source of water?

That's right! Many folks have a birdbath installed in their gardens. It gives much-needed relief for bathing and drinking to our avian friends. Hard-working small pollinators need water too, because nectar alone doesn't give them enough moisture. You may have noticed insects gathering on your plants after watering, especially after a long hot day. They're thirsty, that's all. Sometimes a bee or wasp will creep cautiously to the edge of a birdbath to drink, but most won't because they are liable to drown. There's an easy way to combat that by supplying them with a safe water source. A pie pan or pottery dish with added stones, marbles, or beach glass and filled with water allows parched insects a way to perch safely while getting a drink. Below is a photo of one of my waterers. It had gotten some mosquito larva because I didn't refresh the water quickly enough, so be sure to check it daily. As soon as it was refilled with cold hose water, the larvae died on contact. A pet waterer (the type with an upside-down bottle with attached dish) can make this task easier. Give it a try and have fun watching who shows up at your dishes.

Thumb of 2016-07-04/nativeplantlover/77952b

 
Comments and Discussion
Thread Title Last Reply Replies
Untitled by StellaPhelps Apr 14, 2018 4:05 AM 0
I took your advice this morning....... by PeggyB Aug 18, 2016 6:48 AM 2
Great article & me 2 by DavidLMO Aug 1, 2016 8:41 AM 9
Exhausted and Thirsty Bumble Bee by Grma Aug 1, 2016 8:33 AM 2
within 5 minutes I took your advice from your idea today! by Sheridragonfly Aug 1, 2016 8:31 AM 8

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