In light of our current administration’s decision to delay adding a species of bumblebee to the endangered species list, I decided to put together a list of ways you can help the bumblebees (and other bees). Reminder: bees are an important pollinator, as it is estimated they pollinate $15 billion worth of crops, and losing them can be detrimental to our environment and our economic system.
1. Water
This is a simple thing anyone can do. Especially days when it is exceptionally hot (100°F and up), put out a small container or fill up a bird bath with water. Bees will travel relatively long distances to forage, and may die due to dehydration during flight. Putting out some water helps the bees rejuvenate themselves. Be cautious of using deep containers, you don’t want the bees to drown.
2. Sugar water
Bees sometimes need a power snack when flying. Make some sugar water - 2 parts sugar to 1 part water - and again put it in a small container. Similar to how we may need a granola bar to make it through until dinner, bees may need an extra boost to make it back home.
3. Don’t weed
I know a lot of people don’t let dandelions grow in their front lawn. However, maybe you could let them grow so the bees have something to pollinate. If bees cannot pollinate, they'll die trying. Additionally, letting dandelions grow will reduce the application of herbicides - I’m sure many other bugs and plants will thank you for that.
4. Plant some flowers
Okay so maybe you really don’t want weeds growing in your yard. Instead, you can plant some bee friendly flowers! Look for flowers that possess lots of pollen, and try to plant a variety. Nothing beats looking outside at your garden and watching tons of bees just buzzing around. More information can be found here.
5. Create a Bee Box
This is one method I have not tried, but have heard from others that it is successful. Essentially, this is a little wooden box you place on the ground (preferably around grass or soil with some flowers nearby), which provides a nest for bumblebees. You can even put food inside to help bees rest. Check it out here.
6. Don’t hurt the bee
Okay so this one should seem like a no-brainer. If you see a bee, don’t kill it! Leave it alone, chances are it’s just looking for a flower and does care about you at all.**Note: The cover photo on this article is actually a picture of a honey bee that I helped one day.
