What is in a bee package?
A bee package is a wooden frame box with screen on two sides. It is used to transport bees to a new hive. Packages are sold by the pound. There are roughly 3500 bees per pound so a three pound package contains around 10,000 bees.
How do I order a package of bees?
Buying Bees
- Package Bees: To order a package of bees, contact a local beekeeper supply or local beekeeping association. Most packages will contain a queen, multiple workers, and a feeder filled with sugar syrup.
- Nucleus Hive: You can also order a nucleus hive. A nucleus (commonly called a “nuc”) is a half-size colony.
How do you put bee packages in hive?
Gently pull the queen cage out of the package and set it off to the side on top of the frame. Turn the package upside down and gently shake it to help the bees fall into the hive. You may need to strike the side of the package to help move the bees into the hive.
When should bee packages be installed?
Ideally, package bees should be installed in late afternoon or early evening, when there is little opportunity for flight. On cool days, package bees may be put into hives at any time. If the bees are well fed, they are much easier to install.
What time of day should I install package bees?
How cold is too cold for bee package?
The generally accepted lowest temperatures to install bees is not lower than 50-Fahrenheit. Bees will stop flying below 50-Fahrenheit and will cluster to keep warm. Bees can be installed in temperatures as low as 30-Fahrenheit, but different methods are required for the bees’ survival.
What is better a nuc or a package of bees?
Package Bees are more economical, less prone to spread pests or diseases (because no honeycomb is involved), and are more readily available. They are slower to build up a working population and have to go through the queen acceptance procedure. Nucs – Nuc colonies are more expensive than packages of bees.
How long should you feed a new package of bees?
The bees will store the syrup right in with the nectar and you will not get pure honey. Most often, a new package of bees will not produce enough honey to harvest the first year—so you can feed them as much as you like in year one.
Do you feed a new package of bees?
When you get your package of bees, it usually comes with a can of sugar syrup (also called sugar water). Once you have installed your package of bees in their new home, this is what you will feed them.
How long can I keep a swarm in a nuc box?
They should be left completely alone for 1 week. After a week has passed it is safe in inspect them and make any changes you want because by then, they should have invested in their new home with comb and brood.