From the joyful chirps of birds to the gentle buzz of bees, wildlife is one of the greatest pleasures of having a garden. During summer, however, natural water sources can become scarce, making it more important than ever to lend nature a helping hand.
While most gardeners are familiar with providing water for birds, bees and butterflies need a drink, too – especially during the hot months. Bees don’t just stop for a drink while foraging for nectar; they also collect water to help regulate the temperature inside their hive and dilute honey for feeding larvae.
Bird baths are already a staple in many gardens, but they can harbour bacteria if not cleaned regularly, and their depth can pose a drowning risk for pollinators. The same goes for a majority common water features, including ponds and fountains.
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That’s where bee drinkers come in. Less common than bird baths but arguably even more charming, these small, shallow dishes – often mounted on long stems to resemble flowers – provide a safe watering spot for bees and other insects.
“These small but mighty additions provide a vital source of fresh water for bees and other beneficial insects,” says Paul Selley, who handcrafts bee drinkers for Copper & Green.
“At a time when natural water sources can be scarce, particularly in built-up or urban environments, giving pollinators a safe place to drink can make a real difference.”
Because of their compact size, they can be incorporated into almost any outdoor space, from small balconies to sprawling country gardens. And despite their name, they’re not just for bees.
“Positioned amongst your borders, pots or containers, bee drinkers also attract birds that hop along garden edges in search of water,” Paul says.
“Whether it’s a robin darting between planters or sparrows exploring your patio, these drinkers help create a more dynamic, wildlife-friendly space.”
Nestled among flowers, they blend effortlessly into the planting scheme, while adding a decorative touch of their own. Those made from metal catch the sunlight like tiny garden jewels, making them both practical and beautiful.
Simply push one into the soil and fill it with fresh water (or wait for the rain to come in), and you’ll have an easy, attractive way to support bees, butterflies and birds throughout the summer months.
Bee drinkers for your garden
Personalised Ceramic Bee Waterer 
Wanda Sachs is the Multiplatform Writer for Country Living and House Beautiful, exploring the latest in gardening, wildlife and sustainable living alongside interiors and property. She is particularly interested in human-interest stories, the intersection of design and pop culture, and the evolving relationship between urban and rural life. Previously, she served as Associate Editor at The Berliner in Berlin, where she reported on culture and fashion. Wanda studied English and German at the Goethe University Frankfurt and Exeter University.
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