Back to Ask the Naturalist	The Naturalist:
	Problems with bees at your bird feeder.

When honeybees first emerge in the spring, they are very hungry and in desperate need of protein. In addition, they are eager to build up their population for the expected honey flow and queen bees require protein in order to begin laying eggs. Pollen is the main source of protein in a bee's diet. Sometimes the bees emerge before natural sources are available, especially if it is unusually warm early in the spring.. When this happens, they often turn to bird feeders for the next best protein source-fine dust and oil on bird seed. They are not looking to build a nest in your feeder; they just want pollen.

If this is a problem for you, the best solution is to wait a few days; the bees will leave feeders alone when early sources of pollen-poplars and pussywillows-appear. If you do not want to wait, place another pollen substitute such as soyflower or horse grain with molasses in a shallow dish away from the feeder and people traffic. The bees will go to that instead. If you know of beekeepers in your area, you may wish to inform them that their bees are at your feeder. Most will be glad to know and they can supply a pollen substitute near the hives for their bees.

What do you do when bees are attracted to your hummingbird feeder.

Most hummingbird feeders now come equipped with "bee guards" or deep nectar wells. The philosophy behind these features is that a hummingbird beak is longer than a bee or hornet proboscis (tongue). If your feeder does not have a built-in bee guard, you can make your own by placing fine wire mesh around the feeder nozzle.

If you are interested in more information about this useful insect, one book on the subject is, The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd.