There’s a real buzz in the air at the park this spring – because we’re partnering with the brilliant Bumblebee Conservation Trust as part of our Link to the Wild fundraising initiative!
Through Link to the Wild, we raise funds and awareness for wildlife charities around the globe. Each of our animal departments chooses a charity close to their hearts, and this year, our Education Team got to choose one too! They have chosen to support the Bumblebee Conservation Trust.
Based just down the road in Stirling, the Bumblebee Conservation Trust does incredible work to protect some of Scotland’s – and the UK’s – most important pollinators. Their national campaign, Bee the Change, encourages everyone to take simple steps to support bumblebees in their own gardens, communities and workplaces.
We love how accessible the campaign is. You don’t need a big garden or loads of time to make a difference – just a willingness to let things grow a little wilder. Here are some of their top tips:
- Plant bee-friendly flowers – even a few pots on a balcony can provide a vital snack stop for a tired bee. Try to plant things that bloom at different times so there’s food available throughout the year.
- Let it grow – mowing the lawn less often or leaving a patch of wild grass and flowers gives bees a place to feed and shelter.
- Grown your own – bees love the flowers of herbs, fruit and veg and will pollinate your food for you.
- Create nesting spots – compost heaps, quiet corners, long tangled grass or even an old bird box can be a cosy nest for a bumblebee.
- Spread the word – chat to your friends and neighbours, get the kids involved, or share your bee-friendly efforts online. Every little helps.
Following advice from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, we’ve recently started monitoring our own bumblebees through a monthly BeeWalk in the park. You can learn about arranging your own BeeWalk here.
And remember, this is just one part of our wider conservation effort. Through Link to the Wild, we support a range of brilliant organisations. Whether it’s helping pollinators, protecting rhinos or rescuing seals, every penny raised goes towards protecting wildlife and the ecosystems they depend on.