How to build a wildlife stack

No room for a wildlife stack? Then find out how to make a bee hotel.

Creatures such as centipedes, bumblebee queens and beetles need a cool and dry shelter to winter in, so the nooks and crannies within a bundle of sticks or pine cones make a perfect retreat.

Amphibians might rest among stones and roof tiles, while holes drilled into logs and posts will lure spiders, plus nesting solitary bees in spring and summer.

A homemade wildlife stack is easy to make, from salvaged or reclaimed materials and items from around the garden. Follow our four simple instructions for making one.

You Will Need

• Wooden palettes (3)
• Small terracotta pots (10)
• Pine cones
• Bricks and stones
• Logs
• Roof tiles and felt
• Drawing pins
• Sticks or bamboo canes
• Hollow plant stems like sunflower and fennel

Step 1

Choose a location that is out of the way and lay your first pallet on the ground, making sure that it lies level.

Step 2

Arrange upturned plant pots and other materials in and on top of the pallet. Repeat the process with two more pallets.

Step 3

Fix a layer of roofing felt over the top pallet with drawing pins. Leave some felt hanging over the side to keep things dry.

Step 4

Decorate the top of the stack wiith pine cones, logs and roofing tiles, packing in as much as possible.

Place your home near wildlife-friendly plants

Locating your wildlife home near wildlife-friendly plants will ensure it soon lures guests in.