Watering

           

Watering with a Boardman Feeder
Boardman Feeder
used for watering

During warmer weather, when the honeybees are flying and foraging, they require a source of relatively clean, non-toxic water.  A cattle watering tank, dripping faucet, bird bath, pond, or watering can are all adequate sources of water for honeybees.  Bees need water for their basic metabolism and to regulate the temperature of the hive during hot weather.  Without an adequate water source, your bee colonies will die, abscond, or swarm.

Click here to see the bees drinking

Always ensure the water source is available within their normal foraging distance, the closer the better, and make sure the water is non-toxic.  Relying on runoff from residential areas is not sufficient, as pesticides are common in these water sources.  The bees will usually prefer the closest source of clean water available, so if you have a question about the safety or availability of a nearby source, water them yourself at the apiary with a watering can or the like.


Boardman Feeder
Dual-Access Hive-top Feeder

Feeding and Watering

Opening and Inspecting the Hive

Opening and Feeding the Hive

Preparing to Visit the Apiary


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