Irish Bee Conservation Project




We are a growing group of like-minded volunteers who, through science and dedication, aim to help the Native Irish Black Bee and Native Solitary Bees survive for generations to come. Ireland has a unique pure population of black honeybees that arrived here 9,000 years ago.  A study Dr. Jack Hassett. PHD., on the black bee has found that the Ireland’s black bee has the purest genetics in the whole of Europe.
Ireland had vast forests of Oak Trees and the bee was a feature of this. This is not the case anymore and the IBCP was born to support the declining bee population. It designed and manufactured 20 “Bee Lodges” to provide shelter and breeding facilities for the black and solitary bee. They were amazed to see one lodge occupied within a week of installing it.
These lodges were erected in large trees in Fota Wildlife Park and in Waterford. Wild bees are currently occupying these shelters and will propagate over winter and next year to increase the relevant populations.                                                       
                                                                                               
 One of the main reasons for the diminishing numbers of certain species of Irish bees have been the reduction in foraging, varroa mite and lack of nesting sites throughout the country. The IBCP through an education and networking programme are working to increase floral rich areas which are desirable to our native bee species. One of the ways you can help is by creating awareness of the value of pollination and what we can do to increase measures to help. One being leave your lawn grow 50mm and the clover flower. If you feel you can help the project in any way contact info@ibcp.ie.  
The IBCP are very proud to work in partnership with Cork County Council’s Gardening Competition in sponsoring the Best Bee Friendly Garden. We would ask teachers and children to keep pollinators central to their garden plans.


                     A volunteer hanging bee lodges in Fota Wildlife Park. Remind the children to keep an eye out for them on their visits.

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