Geoffrey has a deep appreciation for wood and creates unique, functional objects that celebrate the natural characteristics of the material. Here, he describes the purpose of a bee hotel, the tools you will need and the method to follow.
HOW TO MAKE A BEE HOTEL
Most people are familiar with the honey bees and bumble bees that live in colonies, but the majority of the bees that are native to the UK
(and elsewhere) are known as solitary bees and are amazingly effective
pollinators. Solitary bees are highly diverse, and so are their nesting
habits. The majority nest in the ground by excavating their own holes
where the female then lays her egg. The mason bee is the most familiar
sight in the UK, and this species will quickly set up home in a bee hotel
like this one. It is important that once you have made your bee hotel it
is positioned in full sun and at least a metre above the ground with no
vegetation obscuring the entrance, otherwise it is unlikely to be used.
TOOLS
Bench Vice, Bench Saw, Cordless Drill, 9mm Lip and Spur Woodworking Bit,
Countersink, Sanding Block, Bench Hook, Plastic Faced Hammer, Screwdriver
MATERIALS
Ash, Hazel, Beech, Sycamore, Yew, Cherry, Oak or Birch
Wood Screws, 4mm Dowelling
All comments are moderated. Published comments will show your first name but not your email. We may use your email to contact you regarding your comment.