Insect hotels from the hardware store: dangerous for wild bees and beneficials!

Insect hotels from the hardware store: dangerous for wild bees and beneficials!

Deutschland - In recent years, the demand for insect hotels has increased in the German gardens. Many people want to make a contribution to species protection and attract wild bees as well as other useful insects. But how helpful are the products from the hardware store? T-Online reports not only unsuitable, but even harmful to the insects can.

The most common defects are incorrectly drilled holes and unsuitable materials that can endanger both nesting and health of insects. Such products often do not offer proper protection and are not designed for the settlement of wild bees. Buyers often do not recognize which models are useful and are overwhelmed by the large number of quickly sold models in hardware stores. It is therefore essential to find out well in advance.

suitable materials and construction recommendations

Bienen.info emphasizes that the choice of location is also crucial: a sunny, dry and wind-protected place (preferably in the south or southeast position) is optimal.

It is just as important that insect hotels stay outside in winter as many animals hibernate there. Regular control for mold formation and moisture is also advisable so as not to damage the habitat of the insects. But also leaving faded stems in autumn promotes the wintering of larvae and eggs, which supports a natural habitat design.

variety of benefits

A well -designed insect hotel not only offers wild bees, but also other beneficials such as lacewings, lady beetles and hoverflies. Spiders can also settle in such accommodations. naju xanten indicates that different materials such as plant stems, wood with holes and pine cones can be used to create a varied habitat.

Wild bees play an essential role in pollination of fruit and vegetable varieties. There are around 560 wild bee species in Germany, many of which are at risk. The suitable diversity can be obtained from the appropriate creation of wild bee hotels and the pollination can be supported. Despite the high importance of wild bees, only about 20 percent of species use nesting aids.

Everyone can contribute to biodiversity by grown suitable plants and natural habitats are created. This not only makes an important contribution to species protection, but also promoted observation and learning about the fascinating world of insects.