Attracting swarms (swarm traps)
Attracting swarms is a cost-effective way for beekeepers to expand their apiaries or replace winter losses. Swarm traps are used to lure swarms of bees to establish a new colony in a controlled location. Successful swarm trapping depends on understanding swarm behavior and using attractants and trap placement strategies. Swarm trapping can be a more sustainable and natural method of colony acquisition compared to purchasing packaged bees or nucleus colonies.
- Swarm lure (pheromones)4
Apply a commercial swarm lure containing synthetic Nasonov pheromone and queen mandibular pheromone (QMP) inside your swarm trap to attract scout bees. Place the lure near the entrance or on the inner wall of the trap. Replace lures every 2-3 weeks as pheromone potency drops significantly after…
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🛠️ Swarm lure
- Old comb in swarm traps3
Place 2-3 frames of old dark brood comb inside your swarm trap as a natural attractant. The darker the comb, the more effective — comb that has been through several brood cycles carries the strongest residual scent. Secure the comb inside the trap so it does not shift or fall during wind.
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🛠️ Old brood comb
- Proper swarm trap placement3
Mount swarm traps 10-15 feet above ground on sturdy tree limbs or structures, facing south or southeast, sheltered from direct afternoon sun and prevailing winds. Place traps within 300 yards of known apiaries, forest edges, or water sources where bee foraging traffic is visible. Set traps out by…
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🛠️ Ladder, ratchet strap