Ruqayyah Snyder
Australian native bees, including the stingless species, are important pollinators, increasing crop production by over 100% in some cases. They also pollinate flowers that European bees cannot, such as the macadamia tree. To support these bees, people can create native bee boxes, also known as hives, using various designs and materials. This paragraph will discuss how to make an Australian native bee box, highlighting key considerations and steps in the process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Recycled timber, Canadian cedar, alloy composite plate |
| Timber Thickness | 40mm |
| Timber Widths | 140mm, 190mm |
| Timber Length | 190mm |
| Timber Type | Western Red Cedar |
| Features | Hinges, latch, viewing panel, weather seal, entrance hole |
| Viewing Panel | Sheet of projector slide |
| Entrance Hole | 13mm wide, angled upwards |
| Design | OATH (Original Australian Tetragonula Hive), Powell Hive |
| Hive Type | Stingless |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right timber
It is also important to consider the source of the timber. Using recycled timber is an environmentally conscious option, and it ensures that the bee box is constructed from sustainable materials. Recycled timber from Canada, for instance, adheres to strict forestry regulations, promoting responsible forest management.
Additionally, the type of timber plays a significant role in the durability and longevity of the bee box. Western Red Cedar is a popular choice due to its high resistance to decay and rot. However, it is essential to be cautious as some timbers with excellent weather resistance may contain natural insecticides that could be harmful to the bees. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct tests before using timbers with natural insecticides, such as Western Red Cedar, to ensure the safety of the bees.
Another factor to consider when choosing timber is its ability to withstand the elements. The bee box should be designed to remain dry, especially during rainy weather. Selecting a timber that is resistant to moisture and water damage is crucial to protect the bees and maintain the integrity of the bee box over time.
Furthermore, it is beneficial to use timber that allows for repeatable cuts and measurements. Working with milled timber widths ensures consistency and precision in the construction process. This makes it easier to create a bee box with uniform dimensions, which is essential for the overall structure and functionality of the bee box.
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Cutting the box to size
When creating your bee box, it is essential to consider the bee's natural habitat and requirements. Australian native bees, such as the Tetragonula (previously known as Trigona) and Austroplebeia species, can thrive in a variety of hive designs and sizes. To ensure the comfort and functionality of the hive, aim for dimensions that provide adequate space and insulation.
One suggested dimension for each side of the box is 190mm in length, with a top lid of the same width, and a timber thickness of 40mm for insulation. This size ensures that the box is large enough to accommodate the bees' needs while also providing protection from the elements. The timber used should be sourced responsibly, with recycled timber being a preferred option to support the sustainability of forests.
Additionally, the entrance hole size is an important consideration when cutting the box to size. A recommended size for the entrance hole is 13mm in width, angled upwards. This dimension allows the bees easy access while also helping to regulate the internal temperature of the hive.
When cutting the box, it is advisable to use a sharp knife or a circular saw to make precise cuts. Mark a line around the entire box as a guide, and ensure that the depth of the saw is set to a minimum to avoid excessive material removal. For the corners, a hand saw can be used to achieve clean and accurate cuts. It is important to finish all sharp edges by removing the arris to create a safe and comfortable environment for the bees.
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Adding features to the box
When making an Australian native bee box, there are several features to consider adding to create a functional and bee-friendly habitat. Here are some key components to include:
Ventilation and Temperature Control:
- Angled entrance and vent holes: Design the entrance with a slight angle, as suggested by Dean Haley, to prevent water from entering the box during rain. Include adequate ventilation holes to maintain a constant airflow.
- Thick walls: Take inspiration from Russel Zabel's design and incorporate thick walls to help insulate the hive, keeping it warm in winter and cool in summer.
Visibility and Monitoring:
Clear panel: Install a clear viewing panel, such as a sheet of projector slide, on one side of the box. This allows you to observe the bees' activity and monitor the health of the colony without disturbing them.
Honey Extraction and Storage:
- Alloy composite plate: Use an alloy composite plate, or a similar material, to separate the brood area from the honey storage section. This design feature makes extracting honey easier and ensures the bees build their brood downwards, leaving the top part of the hive for honey storage.
- Honey super: Include a honey super, or a larger area above the brood, to provide extra space for honey storage. This can be added if you want to accommodate a larger honey yield.
Stability and Weather Protection:
- Holding blocks: Fit blocks or weights on top of the hive to prevent the roof from being blown off by strong winds.
- Weather seal: Install a weather seal around the entrance hole to prevent pests and water from entering the box. This helps keep the hive dry and comfortable for the bees.
These additional features will enhance the functionality and bee-friendliness of your Australian native bee box, providing a suitable habitat for these important pollinators.
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Placing the box in the right location
When placing your bee box, it is important to consider the specific needs of Australian native bees, as well as the different preferences of the various bee species. Firstly, it is worth noting that stingless bees have trouble living in Melbourne, so if you are located there, you may want to consider keeping an exotic species of honey bee instead.
Now, let's discuss some general guidelines for placing your bee box:
- Try to place the box in a location that is similar to where the old hive was positioned. Bees have a strong sense of direction, and placing the new hive close to the old one will make it easier for them to find their new home.
- Consider the surrounding environment and try to mimic the natural habitat of the bees. Australian native bees often make their homes in trees, so placing the box near trees or in a wooded area can be ideal.
- Ensure the location has an abundant food source for the bees. Place the box near flowering plants or gardens to provide ample opportunities for pollination and nectar collection.
- Think about the climate and try to position the box in a spot that will be nice and warm during winter, while also offering protection from the summer heat.
- Place the box in an area that is easily accessible for maintenance and observation. This will make it easier to monitor the bees' activity and ensure their health.
Remember, the specific needs of your bee colony may vary depending on the species and local environmental conditions. Always do your research and consider joining organisations like the Australian Native Bee Association to gain access to resources and support for creating the ideal habitat for your native bees.
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Helping the bees find their new home
Once you have built your bee box, you will need to help the bees find their new home. Here are some tips to do that:
Firstly, place the box on or next to where the old hive was positioned. This will help the bees to find their new home more easily. You can also use a tension strap to hold the hive closed until the bees seal all the cracks up with resin.
Another way to help the bees find their new home is to use some of the entrance wax from the old hive and place it around their new entrance. Bees use the wax on the entrance as a doormat to wipe their feet before coming in, and it also has the added benefit of antibacterial properties.
When designing your bee box, it is important to consider the size and design that will best suit the species of bee you are trying to attract. For example, different box sizes and designs suit the eleven native stingless bee species in Australia: Tetragonula (or Trigona) and Austroplebeia. The most common hive box used for stingless bees in Australia is a small wooden box called an OATH (Original Australian Tetragonula Hive). It is smaller than the box used for commercial honeybees and has a special two-part design that allows the nest to be propagated by a method called splitting.
Additionally, you may want to consider using a clear panel in your bee box design, which will allow you to see the bees without disturbing them. Also, angled entrance and vent holes can help to prevent water from coming into the box during rain.
Finally, when choosing the timber for your bee box, it is important to select a type that is highly resistant to decay and rot. Western red cedar is a popular choice, as it is highly resistant to decay from rot if kept off the ground. However, be aware that many timbers that are very good in weather have some form of natural insecticide in them, which could be detrimental to the bees.
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Frequently asked questions
The most common type of bee box for Australian native bees is called an OATH (Original Australian Tetragonula Hive). It is designed specifically for stingless bees and is smaller than the box used for commercial honeybees.
You can use a variety of materials to make an Australian native bee box. Some people use timber, such as Canadian cedar, while others use recycled wood. It is important to avoid using timber that has been treated with insecticides, as this can be harmful to the bees.
The size of an Australian native bee box can vary depending on the species of bee and personal preference. The most common size for an OATH box is 160-200mm, but some people suggest a size of 140-190mm. The Powell hive box has reduced wall height, which can help to separate the brood more easily.
There are many resources available for building an Australian native bee box. You can find plans and instructions on websites such as Instructables, Aussie Bee, Australian Native Bee, and Native Bee Hives. You can also join the Australian Native Bee Association (ANBA) to access resources and information about building and maintaining bee boxes.
