How to add a queen excluder to your hive - video
How to Add a Queen Excluder?
Blake from Texas Bee Supply explains the optimal timing and method for adding a queen excluder to a beehive that has recently had a super added. This guide offers practical insights on how to determine when your hive is ready for this essential step in beekeeping.
Key Points:
- Assessing Hive Readiness: Check if bees have started drawing out the foundation of the super added about a week ago.
- Feeding the Bees: Initially, bees were given half a gallon of syrup to assist in drawing out the foundation.
- Observation of Activity: Look for significant bee activity and the extent of drawn comb on the super's frames.
- Ideal Conditions for Excluder: Add the queen excluder when there is a fist-sized piece of comb drawn out on the middle three to four frames.
- Handling Overachieving Hives: If the bees have drawn out most of the comb in the center frames faster than expected, add the excluder immediately.
- Physical Removal of Bees: Use smoke and gentle shaking to ensure the queen remains in the lower box when installing the excluder.
- Post-Excluder Management: After adding the excluder, reduce or stop feeding depending on the comb development.
- Final Checks and Tips: After smoking the bees, allow a few minutes for the hive to settle, which encourages the queen to move downward.
Conclusion:
Adding a queen excluder is a critical step in managing the vertical movement of the queen in a beehive. Blake’s tutorial underscores the importance of timely observation and action to ensure the health and productivity of the hive. For more detailed guidance and tips, beekeepers are encouraged to visit Texas Bee Supply’s website and explore their range of educational resources.