Developing the Apiary at Gilbert White’s House and Gardens is an exciting project to expand the existing apiary and promote a strengthened honeybee population which The James Tuttiett Charitable Trust was delighted to support.
Gilbert White was an 18th century naturalist whose pioneering discoveries into wildlife earned him the name the ‘father of ecology’. His findings were recorded in his book ‘The Natural History of Selborne’ that has subsequently never been out of print, and now has over 300 editions. By ‘watching narrowly’ and making close observations, he made important conclusions such as the Willow Warbler, Wood Warbler and Chiffchaff are three distinct species of bird, and he was the first person to describe the Harvest Mouse, amongst others. His work influenced future naturalists, including Charles Darwin, Sir David Attenborough and Chris Packham.
Gilbert White’s House and its surrounding grade listed gardens and parkland is now open to the public to visit. Their mission is to inspire journeys of discovery into the natural world to make better lives, for people and for the planet which they do so through their collections, events and education and outreach programme: Conserve, Protect, Strengthen.
Gilbert White’s House and Garden is situated in the beautiful South Downs National Park, home to many important wildlife species. The land includes a traditional lowland hay meadow which is a vital habitat for many species. This is one of an estimated 3% of meadows left in the UK.
The first beehives were set up in 2022, which quickly became home to a colony of honeybees. The hope is with funding from The James Tuttiett Charitable Trust, additional beehives can be purchased to expand the colony.
Plans to offer additional volunteering opportunities and events for the local community are planned and with extra busy bee pollinators the hope is that there will be an increase in biodiversity in the meadow which is closely managed for conservation to thrive. To learn more go to:
gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk
