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Take part in the Great British Bee Count between 17 May and 30 June
With the weather finally warming up, children and families across the country will want to make the most of nature and the great outdoors, so why not get out and help save the UK’s bees?
Friends of the Earth is inviting everyone to join the fight to protect nature, by taking part in the Great British Bee Count between 17 May and 30 June 2018. By downloading the free, fun and easyto- use app you can identify and learn about the precious pollinators that visit our gardens, parks and countryside. Participants can record each species of bee nthey spot - and even send in photos. Register now at www. greatbritishbeecount.co.uk.
Suitable for all ages, the Great British Bee Count, which is sponsored by Ecotalk and supported by Buglife, is the perfect way for children to get out there and learn all about the amazing bees that can be found throughout the UK. Discover more about their incredible diversity, the threats they face and what we can all do to help them.
Some Simple Projects to Help Bees
Make a bee hotel: With just a plastic bottle and some basic craft supplies, you’ll be able to give bees somewhere to live, sleep and eat. Read the tutorial at www.friendsoftheearth.uk/bees
Grow pollen and nectar-rich plants: Different bee species prefer different flower shapes, so aim for a range from tubular-shaped flowers to open-headed flowers. As well as flowers, try shrubs, herbs, trees, fruit and veg. Spring and autumn flowering bulbs are also great.
Growing sunflowers: Encourage children to look after their own plant. The sunflowers could be planted along the edge of a playground or children could take them home to encourage bees in their own garden.
No garden? Plant up a pot or window box. Try lavender, heathers, nasturtiums, sunflowers and bulbs like crocuses, as well as herbs. Children can also get involved with school garden projects, or perhaps make a bee hotel as a gift to give to friends and family.
Give bees a drink in hot weather: Provide a shallow bowl of clean rainwater with a few pebbles for the bees to land on.
For more tips visit www.friendsoftheearth.uk/bees
Photo credit: Neil James Brain