Old Moor

We're creating a wildlife garden at our Old Moor nature reserve in the Dearne Valley, South Yorkshire. Follow the garden's progress and see what comes to visit! We'll also be bringing you the latest news from the reserve. 

Homes for bumblebees and fun for children

I made three bumblebee homes with some children in the wildlife garden this week, and I really think this is something we can all do. Great for bumblebees... even better for bored children! The BBC breathing places website is a fantastic place to start for all sorts of mini-projects.

Creating homes is a really appealing task because children (and some big kids!) love the idea of shelter and 'homing' something, a bit like a pet. But do remember that it is just as important to encourage or grow food sources for wildlife in your gardens too. In this case for bees, plenty of flowers - in a variety of shapes - to provide a source of nectar.  At this time of year, you might even want to think about where bulbs such as crocusses might go, or think about introducing ivy for some late nectar. Our Homes for wildlife pack has a lot of advice on this kind of thing.

And don't worry if it doesn't look right first time. Our wildife garden is changing all the time so be experimental!

 

 

Posted by Julia Makin at 14:23 on 25 August 2009.  2 comments

Comments

sarah thomas
Posted on Sunday, 30 August 2009 at 8:43

I have seen the bumble home at Old Moor and it looks fantastic and would be an exciting project for children (and me!)  I am a teacher at a primary school and would like to have a copy of the Wildlife pack if that is possible.  Can I access it from the web?

Julia Makin
Posted on Wednesday, 2 September 2009 at 13:51

Dear Sarah,

I'm so pleased you like our hotel here! You can find out how to make something like this, plus plenty of other tips for creating homes for wildlife by clicking on www.rspb.org.uk/hfw

Have fun!!

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