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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