Join the Movement to Protect Our Pollinators

Discover the initiatives driving the survival and growth of Ireland’s native bee populations. Learn how you can contribute to a sustainable future for our essential pollinators.

Act Now to Save Our Bees

Our Four Pillars of Conservation

The Irish Bee Conservation Project (IBCP) is dedicated to the survival, protection, and proliferation of Ireland’s native bee species.

Our approach is built on four key initiatives: the ‘Save Local Bees‘ petition, the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, groundbreaking research on the Varroa mite, and comprehensive habitat support efforts. By engaging communities and stakeholders, we aim to create a thriving environment for bees across the country.

Our work includes establishing bee lodges, enhancing biodiversity, and fostering educational programs to inspire future generations to protect our vital pollinators.

From Lawn to Life: Make Space for Pollinators!

You don’t need a big garden to make a difference — just one square metre set aside for nature can help struggling pollinators thrive. We’re encouraging all householders to clear a small patch of grass and sow a mix of native Irish wildflowers.  The best time to plant is in early spring (March–April) or early autumn (September), when the soil is moist and warm. Simply remove all grass and weeds, lightly rake the soil, and scatter a wildflower seed mix suited for pollinators (such as a native bee-friendly mix with species like Red Clover, Oxeye Daisy, Cornflower, and Knapweed). Water gently if the weather is dry.

After planting, maintenance is easy: avoid and dont use fertilisers, pull any invasive weeds by hand, and at the end of summer, cut the area down to 10–15cm to allow seeds to fall and regrow naturally. In just a few months, you’ll have a mini wildflower meadow buzzing with life!

A Collaborative Effort for Bee Conservation

The All-Ireland Pollinator Plan is a comprehensive strategy aimed at reversing the decline of pollinators across the island. This initiative brings together farmers, local authorities, schools, gardeners, and businesses to create a more pollinator-friendly landscape. By promoting the planting of native flowers and reducing pesticide use, the plan seeks to provide essential resources for bees and other pollinators.

The Irish Bee Conservation Project actively supports this plan by engaging communities and enhancing habitats, ensuring a sustainable future for our native bee species.

Supporting Bee Habitats

Habitat support is a cornerstone of our conservation efforts, with the establishment of bee lodges playing a vital role. These lodges provide safe nesting and breeding spaces for various bee species, helping to counteract the loss of natural habitats. By placing these lodges in strategic locations like Fota Wildlife Park and farms in Waterford, we create sanctuaries where bees can thrive. These efforts not only bolster bee populations but also enhance local biodiversity, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.

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