Website maintenance

Please be aware that the website will be undergoing routine maintenance work between 8am–9am on Tuesday 27 August. At this time, the site may not be available. If this happens, please try again after 9am.

Join
See all stories

How to make a bug hotel

How to make a bug hotel

Transcript

National Trust for Scotland Critter Crafts

Give a home to garden wildlife with this easy bug hotel.

Step 1: Find a spot on firm, level ground and build a high-rise hotel with layers of old wooden pallets and bricks.

Step 2: Leave an H-shape between the bricks. Fill in some of the gaps with bark and dry leaves.

Step 3: Use whatever you can find in the garden. Old plant pots, twigs or garden canes all provide great spaces for critters to explore.

Step 4: Stones placed nearer the ground level in the shade are a great place for frogs to enjoy the moist conditions.

Step 5: Don’t build too high and make sure it’s stable. Use old tiles or planks for a roof to keep it dry. Don't forget to name it and put up a sign.

Step 6: Make sure there are nectar-rich flowers nearby to attract bees and butterflies.

For the love of Scotland | National Trust for Scotland

Make a home for garden wildlife with this easy bug hotel.

Here's a step-by-step guide to building a bug hotel!

Step 1: Find a spot on firm, level ground and build a high-rise hotel with layers of old wooden pallets and bricks.

Step 2: Leave an H-shape between the bricks. Fill in some of the gaps with bark and dry leaves.

Step 3: Use whatever you can find in the garden. Old plant pots, twigs or garden canes all provide great spaces for critters to explore.

Step 4: Stones placed nearer the ground level in the shade are a great place for frogs to enjoy the moist conditions.

Step 5: Don’t build too high and make sure it’s stable. Use old tiles or planks for a roof to keep it dry. Don't forget to name it and put up a sign.

Step 6: Make sure there are nectar-rich flowers nearby to attract bees and butterflies.