What is an invertebrate? 

An invertebrate is any animal that does not have a backbone. This includes a massive number of very different animals: insects (e.g., flies, beetles, and bees), arachnids (spiders and scorpions), molluscs (snails and slugs), crustaceans (crabs and woodlice), worms, and many others. At least 90% of animal species recorded are invertebrates, and you can find plenty on your own doorstep. 

Creating habitats for invertebrates 

In the Forest, naturally, trees and grassy areas are home to insects; we also leave deadwood piles to encourage hibernating and breeding spots. Our Forestry team has also got creative and built some larger bug hotels to help create a haven for new and existing creatures to thrive.

What can you do at home? 

Create a pile using sticks, fallen leaves, logs, and vegetation. This creates an insect sanctuary and serves as a hibernation haven for hedgehogs and amphibians, or go one step further and build your own bug hotel.

Or consider building a bug hotel; it will offer hardworking minibeasts shelter from predators and a safe place to raise their young. A bug hoel comes in all shapes and sizes, from grand resorts to cosy hideaways! Here's how to build yours: 

What you will need:

• Dry sticks and twigs
• Dry grass
• Feathers
• Pine cones
• Cardboard core of kitchen roll
• Tin can 
• Scissors
• Duct tape

How to do it 

1. Safety first: if you are using an old can, wear gloves and tape the sharp edges; you don't want to hurt yourself or any visiting wildlife. 
2. Fill your Tin or cardboard roll with natural materials, such as sticks, grass, and feathers - create hiding holes and dens for your mini beast friends. 
3. Once you have finished your bug hotel place it in a shady, sheltered spot outside spot.