I was introduced to Bee Hotels over a decade ago but only recently decided to make one for my yard. Designed with lots of holes or openings, they encourage native bee species which usually lay their eggs in naturally occurring twigs or stems.

I would’ve built one earlier but I read a compelling article that said they don’t actually work and was therefore, dissuaded.

But a chance sighting on my front porch changed my mind. One of the holes in my welcome sign had been capped with a papery substance, a sure sign of a solitary bee nest.

I’m hoping to host more bees soon!