National Insect Week 2010
National Insect Week 2010 is happening on 21st – 27th June 2010.
Biodiversity isn’t just about wildlife in exotic locations. Take part in NIW2010 and find out that insect diversity is just as relevant and fascinating to explore in your garden or local countryside in the UK as it is in the savannahs, deserts, wetlands and rainforests of the tropics. Even better, why not contribute to NIW2010 by running an event yourself during the Week.
The University has a Biodiversity Action Plan and is always looking for ways to promote and enhance wildlife and habitat on campus. Click here for more information…..
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It's National Insect Week and our campus is as good a place as anyway to appreciate the wonderful world of insects. These stunning action photos were taken at the weekend on West Park, in amongst some quite unassuming looking foliage near the Department of Civil and Building Engineering! Dozens of bumblebees were enjoying the sunshine and making best use of the pollen and nectar that plants on campus provide every day.
Click here to view showreel
(Then click on each image to view next)
Dr Jacqui Glass, one of Loughborough University's Environment Champions said "With an increasing threat to the sustained health of all types of bees, including the bumble bee shown here, we need to make sure we are doing all we can do help bees survive." She went on to explain that anyone with even the smallest garden can help by choosing bee-friendly plants like lavender, buddleia and sedum to ensure that the bee's role as pollinator of our crops, flowers and native plants can continue.
If you are out and about on campus this week, take a moment to notice the insects around you and think about supporting the various activities going on around the country as part of National Insect Week.
For a list of plants that are popular with European bumble bees, please visit: http://www.bumblebee.org/flowerlist.htm
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Showreel of pictures by Ron McKeating
