Scottish Bees Going to the Wall-

Imports Pressurising Natives

I’m quite worried about bees, to the extent that for Christmas last but one I got a bee palace which was meant to encourage solitary bees to nest. Solitary bees are thousands of times more effective at pollination than honey bees, but so far no bees have been tempted into the palace, perhaps as it’s royal wedding week one or two might be tempted to nest there this month. But I’m not alone in my concern for our native bees. A project has been launched to identify and count the native Scottish honey bees. They are under threat and as they are frugal, hardy and mild mannered I’d say it is a good thing to do.

Whatever Will Bee Will Bee

The Scottish honey bees are no latecomers, they’ve been around since the ice age went and are adapted to thrive in Scotland’s climate. They are active at lower temperatures and above all can survive the dreaded Scottish winter. However, bee populations have plummeted due to cross breeding with alien species and a very nasty bee parasite. So alarm bells are ringing and beekeepers have been asked to send in photographs of any bees they think look like the native Scottish dark bee. It’s hoped pure-bred examples can found and used to establish new colonies with a diverse gene pool. Some of the problems facing the Scottish bee come from a renewed interest in bee-keeping as a hobby in people like me, because they use imported bees.

Que Sera Sera

But we are no mere fatalists here at James Pirie we think you have to be up and about and making things happen and we have been beating those metaphorical bushes for new products that will delight the eye, please the pocket and impress the neighbours. And because we are all nature lovers here there is the British Wildlife Collection  and amongst these is the lovely Hare Tot Glass which looks to be something of a steal since its marked down to £13.50  from a much higher price. Grab it before they notice I say. A wink and a nod to one and all!

https://www.jamespirie.com/kintyre-whisky-tumbler-engraved-hare-gift-boxed-new.html