Bees Sleeping Outside: A Fascinating Behavior in Your Pollinators Garden

By: Carolina

This spring, we were excited to create a pollinator garden and planted seeds of marigolds and zinnias, hoping to attract bees and butterflies. As the flowers bloom we were thrilled to see many pollinators enjoying the space we had created. But one evening, I noticed something unusual—bees resting inside the flowers. Initially, I thought they might be dying, but after reading an interesting post on Facebook, I learned that these bees were simply resting.

Why Do Bees Sleep on Flowers?

Bees that sleep outside, often on flowers or plant stems, are typically solitary male bees or older worker bees. Here’s what I discovered about this fascinating behavior:

1. Male Bees Sleep Outside

Unlike female bees, male bees don’t return to a hive or colony at night. Without the responsibility of maintaining a hive, they often rest on flowers or plants, especially in warmer weather. Flowers provide a safe place to sleep and easy access to nectar in the morning..

2. Older Worker Bees Sleep on Flowers

Worker bees, after spending a lifetime foraging, can become less active as they age. These older bees sometimes sleep on the flowers where they’ve been gathering pollen and nectar throughout the day. Resting on a flower helps them conserve energy and stay close to their food source.

3. Early Risers

Bees that sleep on flowers will usually wake up with the morning sun. They’re sensitive to changes in light and temperature, which helps them resume their work at the start of the day.

4. Sleep Patterns of Bees

Like many creatures, bees need rest to recharge. While sleeping, bees become less responsive to stimuli, and their bodies slow down. Flowers provide a soft, sheltered place for them to rest safely.

5. Flowers as Shelter

Certain flowers, such as marigolds and zinnias, are ideal sleeping spots for bees. Their cupped petals provide warmth, protection, and even camouflage. The petals can also trap heat, keeping the bees cozy throughout the night.

6. Adapting to the Environment

Bees tend to sleep outside more frequently in warmer climates or seasons, where nighttime temperatures are mild. When it gets cooler, they’ll return to their hives for warmth and protection.

How You Can Help Bees in Your Garden

If you’re interested in supporting bees and other pollinators, there are a few simple things you can do:

Plant Pollinator-Friendly Flowers:

Marigolds, zinnias, sunflowers, and other nectar-rich plants are great choices for attracting bees.

Provide Safe Resting Spots:

Allow bees to rest on flowers undisturbed. By offering a safe, pesticide-free environment, you’re helping them thrive.

Contribute to Conservation:

By creating a bee-friendly garden, you’re playing an important role in supporting pollinator populations, which are essential for our ecosystem.

Next time you notice bees resting in your garden, remember—they’re simply taking a well-deserved rest. Your garden is providing them with a valuable habitat where they can recharge and continue their vital work.

Want to make your garden even more bee-friendly? Start by planting pollinator-attracting flowers like marigolds and zinnias! You’ll not only create a beautiful space, but you’ll also help support these essential creatures. Share your garden stories or photos with us, and together, we can help our pollinators thrive!