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HOW TO SAVE THE BEES Brits have been advised on how to protect buzzing bees in order to avoid having to splash out billions to fill the gap in our fragile ecosystem in years to come. Horticulture specialists at LazyFlora.com have compiled a bee-saving guide which encourages green-fingered homeowners to do their part in protecting these important flying insects. The world has seen a slow but steady decline in the number of bees since the 1990s due to the widespread use of toxic pesticides, which can’t differentiate between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ insects. Climate change has also dealt a devastating blow to the global bee population, as some species don’t cope well with very hot temperatures – they literally overheat. But as a third of all consumed food is dependent on bees and other pollinating bugs, they play a vital role in our ecosystem. The alternative is pollinating by hand, which is an arduous and expensive task. This would also inevitably lead to a surge in food costs.
Fortunately, we can all be doing our part to help cultivate the population of bees. We’ve listed some of our favourite tips below. Avoid pesticides: The majority of insects are not harmful and there is no place for industrial chemicals in the garden, as some pesticides will remain embedded into the soil affecting other wildlife in the long term. Green fingered Brits should always be wary of using the toxins even for casual use, unless absolutely necessary. Prioritise plants for pollinators: Certain plants are much more likely to attract bees to the garden, so do some research before you plant to find the perfect match. Lavender, oregano and basil all produce lots of nectar and will be covered in happy, hungry bees. Alternatively, reserve a portion of your garden for a wildflower ‘meadow’ or dedicate an area of lawn to native wildflowers only, as this is ideal habitat for pollinators. Plant fruit trees: Fruit trees are often the first source of pollen that appears each year,
providing a rich source of high-quality pollen for bees. Do not weed: Weeds can be a nuisance however they do have their purpose. Plants such as dandelions are a brilliant source of food for bees when other food is scarce, especially in early spring as there is only a limited range of sources available. Quench thirst: Even those with limited space can do their part by installing a small water basin for bees to satisfy thirst during the heights of summer. Just remember to add a couple of stones and floating objects such as a cork so the bees don’t drown. Keep the bees: For Brits who really want to invest in saving bees, they could look at picking up a new hobby – beekeeping. Do plenty of research and ensure preparation is done beforehand. Give bees a home and produce organic and locally made honey for all to enjoy.
Our pets are much loved companions, best friends and family members but sadly, not all animals are treated with the love and care they deserve The RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield, Bradford & District Branch receives no government funding and we are entirely reliant upon the generosity of our kind supporters. Over a third of our income is in the form of gifts included in people's Wills. This generosity helps us to give food, bedding, veterinary care and TLC to the animals in our Animal Centre and contributes greatly to their rehabilitation. This is only possible thanks to the generosity of people leaving us a gift in their Will. Your act of kindness is literally a gift of life to hundreds of animals that have been cruelly treated. It will cost you nothing in your lifetime but from £100 to £100,000, every donation to the RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield, Bradford & District Branch is greatly appreciated and can help save an animal’s life. Making a Will, or adding a codicil to your existing Will is the only way to ensure that those you love will be taken care of, including your pets. If your pet has brought huge joy into your life, remembering the RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield, Bradford & District Branch in your Will is a wonderful way to celebrate your love of your animals and help animals less fortunate than your own for many years to come. As a self funded RSPCA Branch, we're totally reliant upon the kindness of animal-lovers in order to continue our work. Your lasting legacy will ensure that we can continue our work to help the thousands of animals that we care for every year and also plan for the future.
If you would like to talk to someone about leaving a Gift in your Will, please call us on 01422 341160, e-mail us at: Branchoffice@rspcahalifaxhuddersfieldbradford.org.uk or if you prefer you can write to us at RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield, Bradford & District, Wade Street, Halifax, HX1 1SN 36
