Learn how heat affects the brood behaviour of wild bees and which measures you can take to protect nesting sites and food sources during dry spells.
When temperatures rise in June, a critical phase begins for many wild bees. These creatures rely on precise synchronisation between the flowering time of their host plants and their own activity phase for their development. Extreme heatwaves significantly disrupt this balance.
Specialised species like the Harebell Carpenter Bee (Chelostoma rapunculi) rely on the availability of nectar in specific flower shapes. Under drought stress, plants stop producing nectar to conserve water. The bee then finds no food despite the presence of blooming plants. Furthermore, solitary wasps and wild bees like the Red Mason Bee (Osmia cornuta) require stable temperatures for larval development. If the nesting environment becomes too hot, the eggs dehydrate or the female stops tending the brood to avoid dying from heat stress herself.
| Factor | Impact on wild bees | Action in the garden |
|---|---|---|
| Nectar flow | Plants stop production | Plant shade-providing perennials |
| Nesting site temperature | Larval mortality increases | Bright, partially shaded nesting aids |
| Flight activity | Exhaustion due to thermals | Create structure-rich buffer zones |
By taking these measures, you prevent local populations from collapsing due to heat stress. Maintaining small-scale structures is the most effective protection against the climatic changes in your garden.
No, never water the wood or clay. The moisture can encourage mould and kill the larvae. Instead, ensure that it is placed in a shady spot.
High temperatures can slow down flight activity because bees overheat. Furthermore, the flight season for some species already ends in early summer.
Only if you put stones or marbles in it so that the bees can land on the edge. Bees cannot swim and would otherwise drown in open water.
Main article: Heat stress in the natural garden: Why drought encourages adaptation
Keywords
Learn why heat stress in the nature garden is a natural process and how native plants like chicory survive heat through deep root growth.
In-depthLearn why accepting drought stress in your garden is a valuable ecological adaptation and how to build a resilient wildlife garden.
In-depthFind out how mycorrhizal fungi improve your plants' water supply and actively support your garden during drought and heat stress in June.
In-depthLearn how to retain soil moisture in your wildlife garden during June through correct mulching and how to sustainably promote the vitality of your soil.
In-depthLearn how to create a nature-friendly gravel garden as a habitat for wild bees. No membrane, using native perennials for a stable microclimate.
All species data comes from scientific sources (CC BY 4.0 / CC0). Attribution according to licence terms. Complete source overview →