Get a close look at bees by building them a protective home

Bee populations have been declining at an alarming rate worldwide. Which isn't just bad news for the bees as this directly effects food production due to lack of pollination.

How exactly can us folks help when we're so paranoid our little ones are in danger of receiving a nasty sting each time they tromp outside to pick flowers for mommy? YES Mag has posted a sweet tutorial for building a bee home. The DIY is complete with simple instructions, photos and a video. Using some very accessible tools and materials the completed project yields a nest for mason bees. And according to the site, "Mason bees are a common bee you will see flying around your home in spring and summer. They are native, non-social bees. They neither sting nor make honey. The mason bee is an important pollinator. This blue-black metallic bee nests in hollow stems, woodpecker holes, and insect holes found in trees or wood." Your kids will get a chance to observe nature at work knowing they had a hand in helping to protect it all along.

(via Odeedoh)