Bumblebees across the UK are in decline due to severe loss in habitat – since the 1940s, the UK has lost 97% of its wildflower-rich meadows. Bumblebees in Shetland need more meadows on crofts, and more flower-rich gardens and public green spaces. Species on the Edge and Shetland Amenity Trust are working together to create a supply of native seeds adapted to the climate and soils of the isles, to be used in meadow creation projects.
We’re asking crofters across the islands to grow wildflower meadows to benefit Shetland’s precious pollinators. You could even donate seeds from the wildflowers you grow to help spread native wildflowers across the islands! Continue reading to find out how you can help and how Species on the Edge can support you.
What is a wildflower meadow?
Wildflower meadows are grasslands that haven’t been reseeded or received fertilisers. They contain a diverse range of native herbs and provide a food source for pollinators, such as bumblebees, throughout the summer.
How crofters can help
Create a meadow
We can help you select a suitable site on your croft and guide you to grow and manage your own meadow. We will cover the cost of preparing the ground and will supply locally sourced seeds and plug plants.
Enhance your meadow
If you already have a wildflower meadow, we can advise you on how to manage your meadow for wildflowers and bumblebees, e.g. timing and intensity of grazing and livestock type, or cutting regime. Funding is available to enable changes, such as permanent, temporary or virtual fencing to better manage when and where livestock graze.
Supply wildflower seeds
We are looking for ‘donor’ sites for Shetland wildflower seeds – areas with pollinator-friendly plants such as red clover, bird’s foot trefoil and yellow rattle, managed to produce seeds to be harvested at the end of summer. If you have such a meadow, we’d like to hear from you. We can support management and arrange seed collection.
To find out more and to discuss options for your land, contact Becca, Species on the Edge Project Officer for Shetland: rebecca.jackson@rspb.org,uk
