If you come across a bumblebee on the ground, it is likely that it is exhausted or injured. As a bee lover and advocate, it is important to help these amazing creatures whenever possible. Here are some steps you can take to assist a stranded bumblebee:
1. Assess the situation: Before taking any action, carefully observe the bumblebee to determine its condition. If it is moving weakly or appears injured, it is likely in need of assistance. However, if the bee is active and buzzing around, it may not require any intervention.
2. Offer sugar water: Bees primarily feed on nectar and pollen, which provide them with vital energy. To help revive a tired bumblebee, you can offer a small amount of sugar water. Mix one part white sugar with four parts water to create a solution. Avoid using brown sugar as it is harder for bees to digest. Place a drop or two of the sugar water on a teaspoon or an upturned drinks cap, and place it near the bee's front end. Ensure the bee has easy access to the liquid. Be patient and allow the bee time to recuperate.
3. Provide a sheltered spot: While the bee is recovering, it is important to create a safe and comfortable environment for it. Find a sheltered location away from direct sunlight, wind, and potential threats like predators or human activities. You can place the teaspoon or cap with the sugar water in this area. Additionally, consider providing some nearby flowers or plants, as bumblebees rely on pollen for protein and other nutrients.
4. Avoid using honey: Although honey is a natural food source for bees, it is best not to offer it to a stranded bumblebee. Honey can carry spores of a bacterium called Paenibacillus larvae, which causes a disease called American Foulbrood that can devastate bee colonies. To prevent any potential risks, stick to sugar water instead.
5. Observe from a distance: After providing sugar water and a sheltered spot, it is crucial to give the bumblebee space. Bees are resilient creatures, and they know how to take care of themselves. By observing from a distance, you allow the bee to recover at its own pace without causing stress or interference.
Remember, bumblebees play a vital role in pollination, which is essential for the reproduction of many plants and the overall health of ecosystems. By offering a helping hand to a stranded bee, you are contributing to the conservation of these remarkable creatures.