Bees naturally find water in their environment, but when kept in populated areas, it's vital to provide them with a constant, clean water source. Without a proper water source, bees may turn to unhygienic options around homes, which can lead to health issues. In biodynamic beekeeping, where treatments are minimized, ensuring excellent water hygiene is a top priority.

Types of Water for Bees

• Natural Water
  Offers essential minerals but isn't always available in urban settings.

• Tap Water
  May contain chemicals that prevent bacterial growth but can harm bees. If used, it should be boiled and left to cool.

• Distilled Water
  Lacks minerals and should not be used. Additionally, technical distilled water is unsuitable for consumption.

• Rainwater
  A good option if collected in a clean environment. It should be boiled for safety but lacks minerals.

• Natural Clean Watercourses
  The best water source for bees, as it mimics their natural environment. However, in populated areas, clean streams, rivers, or lakes are rarely available. Polluted water from these sources can harm bees and is unsuitable for biodynamic beekeeping. 

• Rainwater in Containers
  While rainwater can be a good source, containers like old tires or discarded items are problematic. They may contain harmful residues from previous use and are also breeding grounds for mosquitoes. This makes them unhygienic and unsuitable for bees. 

• Buckets with Stones and Bricks
  Although attractive to bees, this method poses health risks. Bee excrement left on the stones or dissolved in the water can spread diseases like Nosema apis, Nosema ceranae, and American foulbrood Bacillus larvae. Such contamination can quickly infect entire hives, making this method unsuitable for maintaining hive health in biodynamic beekeeping. 

• Wooden Boards with Dripping Water
  Bees are naturally attracted to dripping water on wooden boards, but this method is highly unhygienic. Bee excrement on the boards can dissolve in the water, spreading diseases like Nosema apis and Nosema ceranae, as well as other infections. 

To maintain high hygiene standards, I use two innovative methods at my apiary:

1. Glass Bottle with Cloth Method

• Fill a glass bottle with water.

• Cover the neck with a linen or cotton cloth and secure it with an elastic band.

• Invert the bottle onto a stand to allow the cloth to absorb water and provide a clean drinking surface.

• Highly hygienic, as excrement falls to the ground, and the cloth is easily replaceable.

2. Glass Bottle with Plate Method

• Fill a bottle with water, cover the opening with a plate, and invert it quickly.

• Place a small twig or wire under one side of the bottle to allow air flow.

• Simple and hygienic, but occasional cleaning of the plate is necessary to prevent contamination.

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• Introducing the Feeders:
  Position the feeder during winter so bees can familiarize themselves during their first spring flights.

• Attracting Bees:
  For the first 1-2 fillings, add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar per liter of water to attract bees to the trough.

Once the bees become accustomed to the feeder, discontinue adding sugar to avoid the risk of robbing, which can lead to aggressive behavior and hive disturbances.

• Adding Salt:
  Occasionally, add pure kitchen salt (without additives) to the water to provide bees with essential minerals.

Use up to 0.5% salt concentration, which is approximately 5 g or 1 level teaspoon per liter of water.

Be cautious not to exceed this amount, as higher salt concentrations can harm bees.

• Consistency is Key:
  Keep the feeders filled, especially during dry periods, to prevent bees from seeking less hygienic alternatives, like a neighbor's pool. If that happens, a jar of honey might smooth things over. 😊

By implementing these methods, you’ll support your bees’ health and strengthen your biodynamic beekeeping practices. Healthy, well-watered bees are productive bees!