I discovered that the bees will attempt to drink from any source of water they may find. A bucket left outside that catches rainwater, anywhere water may puddle you might see bees in it. Like Brad said, they will drown quite often b/c they can’t get back out.
I found out by accident that the bees were getting water from my chicken waterer. So I modified it so they don’t drown. You can get these at the feed store for around $8. Just add some rocks around the perimeter so they can stand there and drink!
I have a little bird bath in the yard near my hives. I have to make sure it gets filled during the summer months, as it drys up quickly. I have a few large rocks in the bird bath that allows the bees to walk around without drowning.
The bees will find any source of water they can, but the easier you make it for them, the better. If your neighbors have a source of water and you don't, your bees will visit them often. Just sayin'
Just wondering what you do as a water supply for your bees?