Wild bee sponsorships
- Theodor Wimmer
- Oct 2
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 10
A changing growing season with an increase in late frosts and strong temperature fluctuations in spring pose major challenges for native insects. However, these species are particularly important for the pollination of crops. In addition to honeybees, Austria's almost 700 wild bee species play a crucial role. To promote these species, awareness-raising measures and the installation of wild bee boxes will be promoted. Together with the Wild Bee Garden Association, 10 wild bee nesting boxes were purchased for the region. In April 2023, a training course led by experts from the Wild Bee Garden Association took place. At a wild bee festival, the wild bee cocoons of the red and horned mason bees were removed together with the wild bee sponsors and refrigerated over the winter. A total of approximately 7,500 wild bees were collected, which were returned to their sponsors in April 2024 and released into the wild at the nesting boxes. Due to the high level of interest and demand, the measure will continue beyond the implementation phase. Preserving biodiversity and pollination will help reduce the effects of climate change. The new owners were carefully selected to ensure the appropriate habitat for the wild bees and, at the same time, increase pollination in orchards and agricultural areas. The measure will also raise awareness of wild bees, biodiversity, and their connection to climate change. In addition, an event will be held in 2025 and 2026 that focuses more intensively on wild bees. This includes the construction of a sandarium (nesting facility for a variety of wild bees) on the grounds of the Nature Park Center. The nature educators have also been trained on the topic and can incorporate it into tours. Wild bees make it possible to influence the design of private gardens.
Key facts about the project:
Location | Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park |
Measure type / project category | Applied biodiversity promotion |
funding program | KLAR! |
Sectoral objectives of the Alpine Convention | Ecosystems & Biodiversity |
partner | Verein Wildbienengarten |
Project period | since 2023 |
Your direct contact:
Katja Weirer
