PUPILS recently joined a Worcestershire housing development to help build a series of new bug hotels, learning about the importance of protecting wildlife habitats and supporting local biodiversity.
The event, at The Green in Rushwick, welcomed 29 pupils to the development, where five bug hotel plots were set up by the site team, led by Area Build Manager, Mike Penn.
The pupils from Rushwick Primary school, aged between nine and ten worked in groups to construct the hotels using recycled materials such as wooden pallets, bricks and slate tiles, as well as natural materials to create safe spaces for insects and small wildlife to thrive.
A bug hotel, sometimes known as an insect habitat or bug house, provides shelter and nesting areas for a variety of species including bees, beetles, ladybirds and spiders.
These insects play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by pollinating plants, decomposing organic matter and supporting other forms of wildlife.
By providing secure, year-round habitats, these shelters encourage biodiversity and contribute to stronger, more balanced local ecosystems.
The activity forms part of Lioncourt Homes’ ongoing commitment to supporting ecological initiatives and encouraging community engagement across its developments.
Mike Penn, Area Build Manager at Lioncourt Homes, said: “It was fantastic to welcome pupils from Rushwick Primary School to The Green for such an enjoyable and educational morning.
“The children showed great enthusiasm and teamwork while learning about how small actions like this can make a big difference to local wildlife.
“At Lioncourt Homes, we’re dedicated to building sustainable communities that work in harmony with their surroundings, and events like this highlight the positive environmental impact that collaboration can achieve.”
Elizabeth Whetham, Executive Headteacher at Rushwick Primary School, said: “Our pupils really enjoyed their visit to The Green and were fascinated to learn how small creatures can make such a big difference to the environment.
“The hands-on activity of building the bug hotels helped bring the lesson to life and encouraged the children to think about nature in a new way.
“We’d like to thank Lioncourt Homes for inviting us along and for helping to show how wildlife can thrive alongside new housing developments.”
