Bees are fascinating creatures, vital for pollination and the health of our ecosystem. But what happens to these tiny pollinators when the weather turns sour? Do Bees Fly In The Rain? The simple answer is: not usually. Rain poses significant challenges to bees, impacting their ability to fly and forage. Let’s delve into the specifics of how rain affects bees and what beekeepers can do to help their colonies weather the storm.
Bee on a flower in the sun
The Dangers of Rain for Bees
While bees can fly in light rain or drizzle, they generally avoid it. Several factors contribute to this:
- Weight and Wing Beat: A bee’s wings beat incredibly fast, around 12,000 times per minute. Even a small amount of water accumulating on their bodies adds significant weight, hindering their flight and making it much more energy-intensive. Raindrops can further disrupt their delicate wing movements.
- Collision Risk: Large raindrops can knock bees out of the air, much like a powerful jet of water. This can injure them or even prove fatal.
- Visibility Issues: Rain reduces visibility, making it harder for bees to navigate and find their way back to the hive. Their ability to locate flowers for nectar and pollen collection is also significantly impacted.
- Temperature Regulation: Bees are susceptible to temperature changes. Rain can chill them, making it difficult to maintain the necessary body temperature for flight.
When a storm approaches, bees typically seek shelter. Those caught outside will find refuge under leaves or other protected areas until the rain subsides. Bees inside the hive will remain there, working to maintain the hive’s internal environment.
How Bees Prepare for and React to Storms
Bees have evolved natural behaviors to protect themselves and their colonies during inclement weather:
- Propolis Sealing: Bees use propolis, a resinous substance collected from plants, to seal any cracks or gaps in the hive. This acts as a waterproof sealant, protecting the colony from rain and drafts. A well-established hive with ample propolis will be better equipped to withstand a storm than a newer one.
- Reduced Activity: Before a storm, bee activity around the hive entrance noticeably decreases. Foraging bees stay inside, and those already out rush back to the safety of the hive.
- Internal Climate Control: With more bees inside, the colony focuses on regulating the hive’s temperature and humidity. This increased workload necessitates sufficient food reserves.
Beehive secured with straps and posts for a storm
Assisting Bees During Rainy Periods
Beekeepers can take several steps to help their bees survive extended periods of rain:
- Ensure Ample Food Supply: If rainy weather persists, monitor the hive’s food stores. If resources are low, consider providing supplemental feeding with sugar syrup or fondant. This is especially crucial after a honey harvest or during an unusually wet spring.
- Secure the Hive: A heavy, well-established hive is less likely to topple in strong winds. Ensure the hive cover is secured with weights (like bricks) or straps to prevent rain from entering. In areas prone to hurricanes or tornadoes, consider more robust measures like strapping the hive to t-posts driven into the ground.
- Provide Windbreaks: Positioning hives near natural windbreaks, like shrubs or fences, can offer additional protection. If possible, temporarily moving hives to a sheltered location during severe storms can also be beneficial. However, only move them a short distance to avoid disorienting returning foragers.
Conclusion
Rain presents a real danger to bees, impacting their ability to fly, forage, and regulate their body temperature. By understanding how rain affects bees, and by taking proactive steps to protect hives and ensure adequate food supplies, beekeepers can help their colonies weather the storm and continue their vital role in pollination. Observing bee behavior and responding to changing weather conditions is key to successful beekeeping.
