It’s been so hot! I’ve got a bird dish but what about other critters that need them?

A. It sounds like you’ve worked hard to create access to water for the birds in your backyard. I imagine you might get some small mammals popping by for a refreshing sip here and there too. That’s wonderful in the summer heat. But you’re right, insects need water too! We’ve got two simple projects that you can tackle in an hour or less that will offer insects like bees, dragonflies and butterflies a perfect spot to grab a refreshing drink in your backyard!

What you’ll need:

• Two shallow dishes or bowls
• Larger pebbles or rocks
• Sandy soil
• Water

Bee and Dragonfly Dish

Insects will thank you for a little spot in your backyard to grab a sip of cool, refreshing water! They need water to survive.

1. Take one of the shallow dishes or bowls and place it in a shady area in your backyard.
2. Add different sized rocks or pebbles to the dish.
3. Add some water but make sure you don’t fill it too much! You want the pebbles or rocks to stick out above the water. The idea is bees and dragonflies will be able to perch on the rocks and grab a sip of water when they need it.

Butterfly Bath

Did you know that butterflies get nutrients that keep them strong and healthy from mud? They love a good mud puddle. And if you want to create one in your backyard, follow the next steps!

1. Take the other shallow dish or bowl and add some sandy soil to it.
2. Add just enough water to keep the soil damp.
3. Check on the mudpuddle to make sure it’s moist enough.
4. If you get rain, be sure to check on the mud puddle and tip out any excess water. Too much water isn’t great for a mudpuddle.

TIP: Don’t forget to clean the dishes often to make sure your insect friends are getting clean water!