by Alan Jacques
alan@limerickpost.ie
A BESPOKE ‘insect lodge’, which will provide a breeding and hibernation habitat for an array of creepy crawlies, was unveiled in West Limerick this week.
Nestlé’s Wyeth Nutrition infant formula site in Askeaton, as part of its sustainability programme, opened its 1,800 square metre Butterfly Meadow that will enhance local biodiversity and encourages an increase in the number and varieties of native Irish butterflies in the area.
Butterfly Meadow is also home to an ‘insect lodge’ that consists of several different sections that provide insects with nesting facilities, where insects can lay eggs, or hibernate in through the winter either as an adult or larvae.
Wyeth Nutrition also announced that it is the process of planting almost 1,900 indigenous native trees adjacent to its site and at the Butterfly Meadow over the coming months.
Seeds were sown in the meadow at the official opening by the pupils and teachers from Askeaton National School. The site will now provide an ongoing educational resource for the local schools.
“Natural pollinator creatures of butterflies, bees and birds are integral to the food we grow. Their habitats are under threat and we’re delighted that we can play a small role in reversing this trend,” said health and safety lead at Wyeth Nutritionals, Brian Shiels.
“By restoring the natural habitat of the area we will hopefully see an increase in indigenous species of insects and butterflies in the local Askeaton area.”
