How California’s Wet Winter Will Help Bees
California is experiencing something new this year — an abundance of rainfall via atmospheric rivers! As many people seized the opportunity to capture rainwater to repurpose it, beekeepers, gardeners, and bee enthusiasts see the opportunity as an excellent way to give bees just what they need. California’s wet winter is just what the doctor ordered for bees and pollinators throughout Southern California.
Increased Water Sources May Equal Increased Bee Activity
The increasing number of natural areas serving as bee water sources also means increased activity as bees find the best places and rush back to the hive to tell the other bees all about it. Bees communicate the location of newfound water locations with an intriguing waggle dance. The good news is that when bees are away from the hive and at water sources, they are typically not aggressive since they aren’t protecting anything.
If bees use an area or water source that poses a hazard to people or pets, contact a local bee removal company with a good reputation in the industry. Most bee activity concerns can be addressed without damage to the home or the hive. Although many companies claim to provide complete bee removal services, checking online reviews can help sift through the options. Companies that only do bee removal understand the urgency when a hive needs to be removed and relocated.
Limiting Water Sources to Locations Away from the Home
Bees prefer water that has a few leaves and natural algae because it makes the water more nutritious for them. However, when push comes to shove, they look for convenient water sources that allow them to drink without drowning. So, if you find bees in your pool, they don’t want to be there either. Bees need water to live, so smelling good places to perch and drink is an essential life function. Believe it or not, bees can smell dirty water and salty water too, which they like.
After these heavy rains, remove water sources close to the home or in areas with lots of foot or paw traffic. Leaving one or two water spots, like a bucket or the bottom of a planter, is a great place for bees to visit regularly, and they will start to do so as soon as the weather is consistently getting warmer.
People have more control over where bees congregate than they think. Intentionally walking the property and making sure water sources are in areas where bees can come and go without bothering people is an excellent way to control bee activity.
Water From Plants and Watering Provide Hydration
Many gardeners plant species that encourage bee activity. Bee-friendly and native plants in your area are highly recommended for anyone planning their landscaping. The morning dew and moist ground will provide some great hydration spots for bees and other pollinators this year. As the heat goes up, misting or watering in the morning can help give bees lots of water options. Bird baths and pools may be the best spot, but providing alternatives now with reclaimed rainwater may save you the annoyance of having a live bee removal company come out and take care of it later.
Bees Need Safe Perching Spots
Most know that bees do not swim. When bees end up in a bird bath or pool, they go for water but can’t get out. Putting something in the water where you want bees to perch is easy. Twigs, branches, and sponges are great perches for bees to drink freely. Wine corks are another great floating device bees are well-versed in using to get hydrated. Creating an ideal water environment for bees may keep them away from the water you do not want them in this summer.
More Rain Means More Bees at Your Home or Business
The additional rain is going to create some incredible blooms this spring and summer. Blooms make bees very happy, and Californians will likely experience more swarming as hives grow more significant and need to relocate. If you have increased bee activity in or around your home or business and need it removed, call a humane bee removal company to handle it so as to relocate the bees to an apiary nearby. Professional beekeepers and honey bee removal companies have the tools and the knowledge to get the job done safely and humanely. It is critical that someone with experience removes a hive to minimize any property damage and ensure the hive will not be re-established in the same spot. The best bee companies will work with clients to bee-proof other vulnerable areas on the property to prevent hives from forming where they may be dangerous or inconvenient.
Don’t let happy bees keep you inside this summer. Take some steps to provide bee water sources for bees in your area and make summer much more enjoyable when your pool and yard are bee-free.
