Sand and wild bee Sanctuary in Holzgerlingen

Wild bees are essential pollinators and play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity. Germany is home to over 560 wild bee species, 70% of which nest in the ground. However, their natural habitats are disappearing — this is where our project comes in.

In collaboration with the forest kindergarten and the BNU local group in Holzgerlingen, we aim to create a Sand and Wild Bee Sanctuary designed specifically for ground-nesting species such as the sand bee (Andrena) and the hairy-footed flower bee (Anthophora). While traditional bee hotels provide nesting opportunities for cavity-nesting species, ground-nesting bees require sandy soil to dig their burrows — yet such habitats are often missing.

Our Sand and Wild Bee Sanctuary will offer precisely these vital nesting conditions, allowing bees to raise their young in a protected environment. But our project goes beyond conservation: The sanctuary will also serve as an educational space for children and adults. Located near the forest kindergarten, it will be a place of discovery where visitors can learn about wild bees and their essential role in ecosystems. An information board will raise awareness about the importance of protecting these fascinating pollinators.

The sanctuary will not only enrich the new kindergarten group but also be accessible to the wider public, creating a space for environmental education and hands-on nature experiences across generations.

With your support, we can purchase the necessary materials to build the sanctuary and turn it into an engaging, nature-based learning site. Depending on the amount of donations received, we also plan to implement additional sustainable and environmental education projects on-site, such as:

Together with the BNU local group and the forest kindergarten, we want to provide wild bees and other pollinators with a vital habitat while helping people understand their importance to our environment.

Help us bring this project to life and create a vibrant, educational sanctuary for both wild bees and people!

Image credit:
© NaturGarten e.V. / Sand and Wild Bee Garden in the Nature Arena Wesel-Bislich