THE BEE BARN PROJECT

Here's what the Bee Barn Project aims to achieve:

1. Unlocking Secrets of Bee Lifespans and Cocoons: We’re digging deep into how factors like cocoon size, weight, and sex link to a bee’s lifespan. As female bees age, they invest less energy in building nest cells, which makes their young more vulnerable. We’re especially interested in their unique haptodiploid sex determination – where females hatch from fertilized eggs and males from unfertilized ones, making male bees fatherless!

2. Finding the Perfect Nesting Fit: While there’s been some research on bee nest sizes, there’s still much to learn, especially in the UK. We’ll study what nesting cavity sizes solitary bees prefer and see if different dimensions affect cocoon health and success.

3. Spreading the Buzz on Solitary Bees: Most people know honeybees, but solitary bees are hidden heroes of pollination. In fact, species like the Red Mason Bee are up to 200% more effective at pollinating flowers. We’re excited to share why solitary bees are so vital for biodiversity.

4. Inviting Citizen Scientists: Locals can track nesting events, mark egg-laying dates, and even conduct timed insect surveys. This will give us fresh insights into pollinator behavior, all while fostering a hands-on conservation experience.

5. Planting Pollinator Havens: With 97% of wildflower meadows gone since the 1930s, there’s a huge need for new habitats. We’re giving participants native wildflower seeds to start their own 20-square-meter pollinator patches – and we hope they’ll expand to include things like butterfly banks, ponds, and bug hotels!

We couldn’t do this without the generous support of Kettering Town Council, whose grant has brought the Bee Barn Project to life. Together, we’re sparking curiosity, growing our community’s connection to nature, and making a real impact on bee conservation!