How to Build a Pollinator Drinking Station

Did you know that bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, ladybugs and other insects need to hydrate, too? Building a pollinator drinking station is easy and provides a much-needed source of water for these beneficial creatures, which is essential for their survival and wellbeing. You’ll attract more pollinators to your garden, leading to increased pollination and a healthier ecosystem right in your own backyard.

Materials Needed to Build a Pollinator Drinking Station:

• A shallow dish or container, like a big plant pot saucer
• Small smooth stones or marbles (easier to keep clean)
• Water
• Twigs
• Brightly colored paper
• Glue or tape
• Popsicle sticks

How to Build a Pollinator Drinking Station:

1. Take your shallow dish or container and fill it with clean water.
2. Add your smooth stones and/or marbles to the container so that they are sticking out of the water.
3. Lay some twigs in the container so they are partially submerged in the water.
4. Place your container in a sunny spot in your garden or backyard.
5. Cut out some brightly colored paper in the shape of flowers or butterflies.
6. Glue or tape these paper cutouts to the popsicle sticks.
7. Stick your popsicle stick creations into the stones and/or so that the paper cutouts are above the water.
8. Watch as butterflies, bees, ladybugs and other pollinators come to drink from your beautiful drinking station!

Remember to change the water in your drinking stations every few days and to rinse off the stones or marbles to keep the water clean and fresh. This way your new friends will know that they can rely on always having a drink in the same place. Enjoy the buzz and hum your project creates in your garden!

Want more pollinator inspiration? Download our Pollinator Power Coloring Pages to keep the fun going!