The Buzz About Bees

There is a sound that is instantly recognisable to Scots far and wide, a sound that will have even the most composed of people flapping madly around their heads in a frantic flurry. It is a sound that will remind some of a quick sharp stab of pain and have others fearing such an experience. Bees certainly have the Marmite effect on many of us but whether we love or hate them, we all need them. Without these funny little buzzing insects pollinating our plant life, not to mention producing the most luxurious melted gold, the health of our region may well be in a critical state.

Certainly, whether we are able to keep a hive or not, we all have the opportunity to help and support our local bees, so what are some of these best ways to help our winged comrades?

Could you plant something special? It goes without saying that a key way to help support bees is to plant flowers that they can use and which preferably have a longer season, either early or late flowering, providing a vital source when the weather is still cool. Even if you have a small garden or it is already bursting with different plant life, could you make room for one more plant, another hanging basket, window box or just a little pop plant tucked away somewhere? Aside from the well known lavender, how about planting sea holly which both butterflies and bees adore or allowing some of your herbs to flower.

The Inverness Beekeeping Association is long established in helping to support local populations as well as educating people locally on how to keep their own hives or indeed to take small but effective steps to nurture bees in their spaces.

Association President Jed Russell comments, “We are a beekeeping community, based in Inverness. Our aim is to promote high quality beekeeping practices throughout the Highlands and promote the conservation of honeybees and other pollinators. We run monthly meetings between September and May where we have a guest speaker who talks about their experiences in the beekeeping industry.

“We offer an annual beginner course to get people started with beekeeping (or remind people of the basics). We also have an annual Honey Show where our members can show off their hive products, compete in the competition and sell their products. We also offer other events such as Queen Rearing courses.

“People don’t need to become a beekeeper and keep their own hive to help the bees. One of the best things that people can do is to plant a range of flowers in their garden so that bees, and other pollinators, can have access to different types of pollen and nectar all year round. Flowering currants, primroses, and lavender are all great options for bees.

“Another good thing to do is to leave one area of your garden unmowed as many lawn weeds (such as dandelions) are excellent pollen and nectar sources in the Spring. You should also limit or avoid pesticide use in your garden as this is very harmful to bees and other friendly pollinators. Perhaps introducing a bug hotel into your garden also - this could give a home to many species of solitary bees. You can buy bug hotels in your local garden centre or easily make one yourself at home.

“It is very important that we support our local bee populations. Not just honeybees, but also other pollinator species such as: bumblebees, solitary bees, butterflies, moths, hoverflies, etc. Their pollination services are vital for our food production and the health of our surrounding environment. Almost all of our fruit and vegetable crops rely on pollination - we could not survive without pollinators.

“A combination of factors are contributing to their decline such as: mono-culture farming, pesticide and insecticide use, habitat loss and climate change. However, by doing the things mentioned above, you can help to save the bees.”

Whether you are planning to plant bee friendly plants, resist using damaging pesticides or are considering taking on a hive, this summer offers a buzzing opportunity to support our local bees no matter where you live.