Beekeepers hear about helping wildlife

Olrig and District Beekeepers Association was delighted with the attendance of beekeepers, prospective beekeepers, gardeners and members of the public at its latest meeting at which High Life Highland countryside ranger Kirsty Rosie gave a talk on Gardening for Pollinators and Wildlife.

The presentation was wide-ranging and included the disappearance of meadows, the value of native species, the involvement of local schools in various projects and what gardeners can do, even those with limited space.

The decline and disappearance of insect species including bumblebees, butterflies and moths is of concern and simple measures can be taken to help protect them through the provision of food, water and shelter. Also was highlighted was the importance of wildlife corridors and wildflower verges, especially those featuring dandelions which are an important food source for honeybees.

For people with no space for a garden, even in the form of window boxes or doorstep pots and boxes, Kirsty highlighted the many countryside volunteering opportunities available through beach cleans, litter picks, tree planting in community woodlands and citizen science projects, all of which help to provide enhanced environments for many species.

For information on Olrig and District Beekeepers Association, follow on Facebook.

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