Leith beekeeper on the hunt for new home for hives as area risks losing its honeybee population

Do you have a large bit of land that could help spare the plight of Leith’s honeybees?
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A Leith beekeeper whose hives are under threat for safety reasons is calling on the public to help her re-home her honeybees.

Amanda Moffet cares for six hives at The Community Croft on Leith Links.

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But due to recent refurbishment works and a weekly farmer’s market in the area, the local beekeeper is having to move her ever-growing bee colonies for safety reasons.

Amanda Moffet at The Croft on Leith Links where she currently looks after honeybeesAmanda Moffet at The Croft on Leith Links where she currently looks after honeybees
Amanda Moffet at The Croft on Leith Links where she currently looks after honeybees
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"The bees have loved The Croft a little too much and grown in numbers very quickly,” Amanda said.

"I need a bigger, safer space to keep the main hives.

"I know The Croft really want bees, but while work is being done here and the farmers market is on, which requires space, it’s important to consider the safety of the visitors.”

The dedicated apiarist is looking for a plot of land about 20 ft wide and 15 ft deep.

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She has her eye on the Seafield area, particularly near the sewage works where there are plenty of green spaces.

"I’ve had lots of people contact me to offer help,” Amanda said, “I have some good leads for some sites.

"I personally think there is a lot of potential in Seafield.”

In order to successfully move her bees, she needs to relocate the colonies at least three miles from The Croft, otherwise they will just return.

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“The croft has been amazing and the response I've had from people offering to help has been incredible,” she added.

Amanda said while public safety and the welfare of the bees are her main reasons behind having to relocate, she said finding a new, bigger space for her colonies will also help keep the honeybee population alive in Leith, which is enjoyed by residents.

“You can just see the way people are planting has changed, with so many more pollinating plants and a wilder style of garden,” Amanda added.

"Places like the Links have residents leaving areas for wild flowers and people leave clover flowers alone for the bees when they cut their grass.

"I don’t want to give up my bees!”

If you can help, contact Amanda on: [email protected].

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