Rounding up the critters with a “Bee Vacuum “featured
Sometimes, bee swarms or existing colonies are in a location that is very difficult to access. It’s then that a bee vacuum comes in handy.
The adaptation model that I built makes it easier to delicately collect the bees while placing them in a spacious hive box. (from “Build a Bee Vacuum”, Mother Earth News, April/May 2021)
A screened top allows for air flow and ventilation during transport to the bee yard. While it is a little “bulkier” to use, as opposed to some “backpack” commercial models I’ve seen, I think the use of the inclined plane and introduction to the box with frames, makes it a little more comfortable for the bees to adapt to their new setting.
The ratchet straps and tie downs help to preserve the vacuum pressure while also serving to secure the components during travel to the bee yard.
Tie-down straps to help seal boxes
Components of bee vac system
Use of sponge toy soccer balls are used to plug the gap and provide box integrity during transport to keep the bees securely inside the box.
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