honey bee swarm trap for sale

3 min read 23-11-2024

Are you a beekeeper looking to expand your apiary or a new beekeeper hoping to start your own hives? Purchasing a honey bee swarm trap can be a cost-effective and rewarding way to acquire bees. This guide explores what to look for when buying a swarm trap and where to find them for sale.

Understanding Honey Bee Swarm Traps

Honey bee swarm traps, also known as swarm collectors or bait hives, are designed to attract and capture swarms of honeybees. These traps offer a safe and convenient alternative to purchasing packaged bees or catching wild swarms. A successful trap mimics a natural hive cavity, attracting scout bees searching for a new home.

Key Features of a Quality Swarm Trap

Several key features distinguish a high-quality swarm trap from a less effective one. These features directly impact the success rate of attracting and capturing a swarm.

Size and Design: The size of the trap should be appropriate for a swarm's size. Typically, a volume of around 5-10 gallons is suitable. The design should mimic a natural tree cavity with enough space for the bees to build comb. Consider internal dimensions and whether the trap design makes it easy to inspect and remove the swarm.
Entrance Size: The entrance hole's size and shape are critical. It should be large enough for bees to easily enter and exit, but small enough to deter larger predators. Consider traps with adjustable entrance sizes for greater flexibility.
Materials: Durable, weather-resistant materials are essential. Cedar, pine, or even untreated plywood can be used, but ensure the material is naturally resistant to rot and insects. Avoid using treated lumber, as chemicals can harm the bees.
Easy Access: Consider traps with removable lids or side panels for easy inspection and swarm removal. This is essential for safe and efficient harvesting of your new colony.
Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is crucial to prevent overheating and moisture buildup inside the trap. Look for traps with ventilation holes or screened panels.

Where to Buy Honey Bee Swarm Traps

Several options exist for purchasing honey bee swarm traps, ranging from online marketplaces to local beekeeping suppliers.

Online Marketplaces

eBay: eBay often features a wide selection of new and used swarm traps from various sellers. Carefully review seller ratings and descriptions before purchasing.
Amazon: Amazon offers new swarm traps, often with customer reviews to guide your decision.
Etsy: Etsy features handcrafted and custom-made swarm traps from individual artisans. This can be a good option if you are seeking a unique or specialized trap design.

Local Beekeeping Suppliers

Contact your local beekeeping association or supply store. They may sell swarm traps or be able to direct you to a local beekeeper who crafts them. Supporting local businesses is a great way to access high-quality products and potentially gain valuable advice from experienced beekeepers.

Build Your Own

For the more adventurous beekeeper, building your own swarm trap can be a rewarding project. Numerous online resources offer detailed plans and instructions for constructing effective traps from readily available materials.

Preparing Your Swarm Trap for Success

Once you’ve purchased or built your swarm trap, proper preparation is key for attracting bees.

Placement: Locate your swarm trap in an area with good bee foraging habitat and ample sunlight. Consider hanging the trap 8 to 12 feet off the ground, out of reach of potential predators.
Lure: Apply a commercially available swarm lure or a natural attractant such as lemongrass oil to the interior of the trap. These lures mimic the pheromones released by queen bees, attracting scout bees.
Monitoring: Regularly check your trap for signs of occupation. Once a swarm has moved in, you can safely transfer them to a full-sized hive.

Conclusion

Acquiring bees through a honey bee swarm trap offers a unique and rewarding experience for beekeepers of all levels. By carefully considering the features outlined above and choosing a reputable source, you can significantly increase your chances of success in capturing and establishing your own thriving honey bee colony. Remember to always prioritize the safety and well-being of the bees. Happy beekeeping!