Insect havens
They may be irritating to some, but insects are essential for birds and lots of other wildlife. Without them:
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Plants would not be pollinated
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Baby birds would not eat
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The planet would grind to a halt if there were no insects!
Insects are fascinating, diverse and remarkable. From lovely, fluffy bumble bees to sparkling butterflies; from glistening millipedes to the secretive woodlouse. Bugs are amazing and we need to do everything we can to help encourage them.
There is new evidence that insects have declined by 75% in 30 years - so we need to do all we can to help them; and in turn help birds and other wildlife. Plant as wide a range of nectar-rich flowers as possible – native species are best for bugs.
Offer somewhere to live, reproduce, store food and hide from the elements with bug homes – or combine lots of elements into an amazing Bug Hotel!
Recently felled trees are perfect for making a nice log pile for a more natural looking Bug Boarding House – offering 5 star accommodation for many species!
Why not consider adding a worm composter? Worms have as much importance as insects in the food chain.
Don’t forget hedgehogs – areas for insects and worms are perfect for hedgehogs and if they are in a quieter, sheltered part of the garden then this could be the perfect place for them to hibernate over winter. You could offer them a Hogitat, or if you build a bug hotel you could include a hog-home on the ground level.
Check out our step by step guide to making your very own Bee Hotel:
Download a list of useful plants to grow for insects: