AS FEARS grow over the potentially-devastating effects of the extinction of bumblebees, a Kinross-shire nature reserve has created the world’s first sanctuary for the winged wonders.

Backers of the sanctuary, at Vane Farm on the banks of Loch Leven, say they are thriving at the wild flower meadow created by the Bumblebee Conservation Trust (BBCT) and RSPB Scotland.

Bumblebees are incredibly important pollinators but are in need of a helping hand, according to BBCT’s director Dr Ben Darvill.

He said, “Wildflowers and crops alike depend on the hard work of our endearing bumblebees, but sadly many species are now under threat.

“Habitat loss has already led to the extinction of three species, and several more are severely threatened.

“Hay meadows and clover leys are now seldom seen in today’s farmland, leaving little for bumblebees to feed on, so both farmers and conservationists need to do what they can to help.

“By sowing a legume-rich seed mixture, funded by Scottish Natural Heritage, we have recreated the sort of habitat which allows bumblebees to thrive.”

The meadow’s creators are thrilled with the hundreds of bees and other insects it has attracted, not least the rare blaeberry bumblebee which has arrived from nearby hills.

Dr Dave Beaumont, head of reserves ecology for RSPB Scotland, said, “The partnership with BBCT has allowed us to convert what was a normal looking green field into a spectacular wild flower meadow that grabs all of the senses when you walk through it.

“By ensuring we have healthy bumblebee populations on our reserves, we ensure that the habitat itself is healthy, which in turn is good for the birds.”

The meadow, like the rest of Vane Farm, is open for the public to visit.