Even wasps need to take a drink in the heatwave

Sir, — As I took a walk around my garden this evening, I stopped to add fresh water to the stone birdbath. I waited.

In the space of a few minutes four or five wasps had arrived for a drink.

It is important to remember that they, too, become dehydrated in this heatwave.

I came to learn that they use water to build, to repair and to cool their nests. Added to which they transport the liquid and regurgitate it into each other's mouths — a process called ‘trophallaxis’.

The small daily act of filling a shallow container outside could make the world of difference to wasps and other insects in these arid times — not to mention the birds. — Yours faithfully,

Inese Clayson

South Street, Caversham