8th August 2009

An early start to help set up the stand at the Scottish Natural Heritage tent, with SNH staff and Historic Scotland Ranger Service providing bumblebee entertainment throughout the say, with badge- and mask-making, a bumblebee quiz (prize: a bumblebee nestbox), and a host of information to take away – including a cracking poster featuring a photo of the great Yellow Bumblebee by renowned wildlife photographer, Laurie Campbell.  BBCT had a selection of material on offer, including a Great Yellow Bumblebee postcard, to stimulate people to record their sightings.  Also launched was a flyer for the Species Action Framework (of which BBCT is a partner), as an accompaniment to our previous Farms, Crofts & Bumblebees leaflet, prepared with RSPB.  The flyer draws attention to useful options under the new agri-environment scheme in Scotland, Rural Priorities (now in its second year).  We did some more recording with Orkney Radio and for a Radio 4 programme, due for broadcast in the autumn.  Star of the show had to be Erica from SEPA, who donned the giant bee suit twice during the day.  Some Orkney ice cream helped with recuperation, as it was by now a very warm and busy day.  Well done Erica!  The Show also provided an opportunity to meet with Richard Shearer, a local seed merchant who is much involved in the ‘Birds & Bees’ crops, and in the trial clover mixes that BBCT have supported this year.  Orkney is a wonderful example of how different organisations and individuals are working together to support the Great Yellow Bumblebee – a model system.  Walking back from the site a few male White-tailed Bumblebees were in evidence along the roadsides, busy nectaring – sounded like a very good idea!