The University’s landscape and services team has recently installed a new Bug Hotel, nestled in the corner of our Williamson building. The Bug Hotel is made using recycled wood, as well as foliage and twigs that were found around the campus grounds. The team kindly put the Bug Hotel together in their spare time, hoping to attract a wide range of tiny creatures that live on our campus but go largely unnoticed.

Within our flourishing grounds lie a secret: the indispensable role of insects. Beyond their buzzing presence, these tiny creatures serve as pivotal players in maintaining the health of our campus’ nature. Beneficial insects, in particular, act as natural pest controllers, curbing the population of harmful bugs. Moreover, their tireless efforts in pollination are the unsung heroes behind the bloom of flowers we see on our campus come spring and summer.  

The number of pollinator insects in the UK is declining so it is now more important than ever to help give them a home. Next time you walk past the Williamson building, take a look and see if you can find any tiny hotel guests that are taking a stay.