[Lesley Silvester]

I have just received my stareter pack for having my own Red Mason Bees and I'm very excited.  I've often fancied keeping bees but it's not practical here apart from the fact I am not fit enough to look after them now.  This is a great compromise.  I have a nesting box and a container of the bees to go it it when the weather warms up a bit.   

[Clarebelle]

Thats sounds fab! I'm not allowed to keep bees because we are surrounded by neighbours but they are one of the first things i'll get when I can!

They are amazing creatures, I love them! I hope your bees settle in ok! 

[scarlettoara]

that sounds interesting, have you any more info?
i saw a starter pack for bumble bees once, though it only lasts a year as they then die. still tempting for a unexperienced wannabee like me. (excuse the pun  )

[Lesley Silvester]

Red Mason bees are non-stingers - at least only the females sting but they have to be very upset and the sting is non-toxic so doesn't hurt - which makes them ideal for built up areas.  I am surrounded by other houses myself.  My kit consisted of a nest, a cocoon and a book about them, costing £24.95 and I got it from http://www.birdfood.co.uk/search.php?srch=REd+mason+bees They do different ways to buy the bees but I thought the kit was good for a beginner.
I've dealt with this company before and they are very good.  If you decide to get some, they are only available for a short time as they start to hatch in spring.  Last time for ordering is mid-April and that is subject to having some left.

[scarlettoara]

they arent the masonry bees that live in the mortar on your house?

my daughters school had loads of caterpillars / butterflies last year. each one in a plastic tub with all the nutrients it needs to grow, cocoon and fly away. was really good. cant remember the company though.

[Lesley Silvester]

These are Red Mason bees.  I don't think they are the same as masonry bees.  I hope not.