What would a blossoming cherry tree or a wildflower meadow be without the buzzing of bees and bumblebees? But what we take for granted is increasingly under threat. The natural habitats of these industrious flower visitors are becoming smaller with every levelled area; monocultures, environmental toxins and genetic engineering are endangering the survival of many insect species.

Nesting aids as well as roosting and winter quarters for insects are effective and in some cases easy-to-implement options for nature conservation. This book explains how to build simple and complex models, with detailed construction plans and material lists to help.

You can build different insect hotels yourself from flower pots, plant stems, pieces of wood and clay. There is space for them in the garden, on balconies and windowsills, where the useful insects can build their nests. The book also presents nesting places for lacewings, butterflies and earwigs, and helps you to build shelters for bumblebees and hornets.

In addition to nesting sites, insects need flowering gardens to feel at home. Plant lists and practical suggestions for natural oases even in small spaces, green facades or a wildflower meadow help to create an insect-friendly environment.

You can learn how exciting the world of hotel residents is by observing insects. 36 animal portraits provide an insight into the fascinating world of insects and their biodiversity. Tips for photographing the lively flower visitors round off the book.