Lots of water foraging

[Firegazer]

OK, the bees in our gradually expanding nuc, now in a hive, are fetching lots of water. [see video]. It hasn't been that hot, so I presume they are using this to water-down previously stashed honey for use?

When we inspected, it did seem that the original nuc stores frames were being depleted a bit rather than being added to.

If so, why?

There seem to be lots of flowering plants around - many within touching distance of where these bees were water collecting. If they need nectar, why not just collect it rather than use stores up?

Could it be that they are trying to create more laying space by consuming honey and following a 'low inventory' approach because it's less risky in the summer months?

FG

 

[susbees]

Nectar volume and concentration is climate/weather dependent. And, I'll be corrected if mistaken, honey bees like blocks of a particular plant (unlike bumbles and solitaries who are much easier to please).

Any idea how much "monoculture" before honey bees bother?

FWIW one of ours is expanding brood and consuming stores (plenty space for brood) but bringing in loads of pollen. Weather for the last few days horrible so decided not to artificially feed them.