Wildlife Welfare

Wild Bee Nest Site Provision and Welfare

Providing nest sites for solitary and bumblebee species supports wild bee welfare and pollinator populations in human-modified landscapes.

Key Facts

Over 250 bee species live in the UK of which the majority are solitary species
Solitary bees nest in holes, bare ground, and stems depending on species
Bumblebee populations have declined with 2 species now extinct in the UK
Wildflower-rich foraging habitat within flying range is essential near nest sites
Nest boxes for solitary bees are beneficial if appropriate forage is available

Welfare Considerations

Wild bees denied suitable nest sites face reproductive failure. The loss of nesting habitat through building development, garden tidiness, and pesticide use has contributed to bee population declines. Providing nest sites that match the requirements of local species, combined with nearby forage habitat, directly supports individual bee welfare through enabling successful reproduction.

What You Can Do

Install solitary bee nest boxes and companion wildflower plantings
Leave some bare ground for ground-nesting bee species
Support wildflower habitat restoration for wild bee foraging