This post may contain affiliate links.
We created a lovely, colorful place for insects to gather in our backyard called an insect hotel. My kids and I had fun making this and have had fun watching it for the past month or so.
To Make the Insect Hotel:
We used a small clay pot, some smoothie straws (I got mine at Ikea), and a jar candle.
We cut the straws in half and tied them in bundles to contain them. I put a piece of foil in the bottom of the pot to cover the hole. We melted the candle completely in the microwave. Pour the candle into the bottom of the put, then put the bundles of straws into the wax. The wax will harden as it cools and hold the straws in place.
Find a secluded place in your yard to put your insect hotel. Leave it alone and let the bugs explore.
Ours has been in our yard for about a month and we have sen lots of spiders and other little bugs make their residence in it. The kids were hoping a colony of bees would take up residence and create a hive in it, but I am trying to let them know that it isn’t very likely. 🙂
Want more insect ideas? Check out these posts:
Kayla says
This is SO FUN! Thank you for sharing! My kids (7, 5, and 2) have been REALLY excited about all of the new insects and critters we have found over the last year after a move from the plains of Colorado to South Florida. We will definitely be trying this come fall 🙂
Emma @ P is for Preschooler says
What a fun way to observe nature without harming it! This might even be helpful for kids who are afraid of bugs to learn more about them.
Riley says
Such a great idea! My son is fascinated with insects at the moment, so we are going to try this!
Lisa says
Please do a little more research. While this is colorful and cute, you may have better results if you use paper straws or cut sticks (bamboo, phragmites, or elderberry) that have empty centers. The Leafcutter bees will appreciate your efforts even more! Also, these tubes need to be replaced every year to avoid fungus and parasites attacking your new friend. Thanks from the bees, and me.
Louise says
Do not use plastic straws! They will sweat inside and harm the solitary bees using them as homes. Use paper straws or rolled up paper tubes, bamboo or anything but plastic straws. While our intentions are good, please do more research.