Lots of bees out today

[backyard warrior]

thought id try to give them some fondant open feeding didnt take it. So I did some walking around found the bees over by the pond bringing in lots of water into the hives. Is this to raise brood or is this to convert the fondant into an edible consistency inside the hive ??  Chris

[wouldliketobee]

I've noticed something similiar with my bees, they ignore syrup this time of year that I open feed even if it's warmed up, but they go nuts for dry pollen substitute that I have put out and water that I keep filled in an inverted 5 gallon bucket on the days when it gets above 50 degrees.I know it supposed to be a negative thing to give them pollen this time of year so I don't make a habit of it , but I figure the water would be ok  if they don't get it there they will get the rank water from the ditch.