Pollinators, Water, Wildlife

“Thirst traps” in the garden? Yes, but for pollinators!

Help pollinators stay hydrated this spring with wildlife watering stations

March 20, 2024

Small creatures contribute so much to the vibrant buzz of nature around us. With warmer weather, you might notice butterflies and bees on the wing tirelessly seeking out sustenance in yards, parks and other green spaces (like wetlands!).

As they fly, they transfer pollen on their bodies from one flowering plant to another, which then produces seeds and fruit. They’re small and easy to miss but these insects are pollinating the plants that sustain life on our planet.

You probably already know that bees and butterflies need flowers for food, but have you considered how they stay hydrated? Just like us, wildlife need water to survive but these tiny pollinators can’t land or stand in open water, or they may drown. Instead, they seek out shallow pools and damp soils to safely obtain the life-giving benefits of hydration.

So, how can you support these essential pollinators? You can help by setting up a simple watering station on your balcony or in your backyard.

Skippers are small, swift butterflies. © Bridget White

What are pollinators?

Remember the “Bs”: Bees, butterflies, birds and some beetles are the most common pollinators in Canada. But moths, wasps and flies also pollinate plants.

Bees will drink water at your station and then carry some home to use for cooling and hydrating in their hives. © Adobe Stock

Create an attractive pollinator perch

The simple practice of setting out a watering station can play a positive role in the health of butterflies and bees this summer.

Pick the perfect spot: Find a flat space for the watering station that is tucked away and near flowering plants, if possible. Try to keep it in one location so pollinators can return to it.
A wide, flat container: You can use a simple dish or saucer—large or small—or even a brightly coloured hummingbird feeder from a hardware store. Add fresh water daily.
Provide perches: Arrange small stones, sand, and even leaves and soil in the water dish. Your pollinator visitors will have a variety of ways to access the water without danger of drowning.
Be attentive: Top up the water daily and clean the container weekly to reduce the chance of spreading bacteria and disease. Be sure to rinse away cleaning products thoroughly before you refill the container.

Helping these tiny creatures is not only an act of kindness but also an investment in Canada’s biodiversity. And you’ll be fascinated by the delicate but hardy insects as they go about their busy, daily lives.

How to help

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“Thirst traps” in the garden? Yes, but for pollinators!

Help pollinators stay hydrated this spring with wildlife watering stations

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Create an attractive pollinator perch

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