TOP 8 Best Honey Strainers for Extraction 2021

One of the oldest human hobbies is collecting honey from bee colonies. Honey is regarded as a valuable commodity in the world. As technology became more involved in beekeeping, new methods and equipment emerged. Honey strainers are absolutely necessary parts of beekeeping equipment. This article discusses the best honey strainers for beekeeping on the market. They come in a variety of sizes and patterns, but they all serve the same purpose: to filter and remove contaminants from honey.

Why filter honey

Straining honey is a personal choice among beekeepers, and it is heavily influenced by your market. Some purchasers prefer to see particles floating in their honey to guarantee that it is fresh from the hive. Other buyers may be turned off by the presence of particles in their honey and will shop elsewhere as a result of the presentation.

There is no need to buy an extractor if you simply want to extract honey from one or two frames of honey at a time. This can be an expensive purchase with little return. Instead, remove the comb from the frames, set it in a large bowl or bucket, and smash it with a wooden spoon or potato masher until it’s small enough to strain. Straining honey is a simple task that might help you make and save money in these situations.

How do you strain honey?

Here are some instructions for straining honey:

• Extract the honey

You must have extracted honey to work with in order to strain it. If you have an extractor and enough honey frames to justify utilizing it, use it to separate the honey from the comb. If you’re simply working with a few frames, apply the crush and strain method.

• The honey and strainer come together

Fill the strainer halfway with honey. If you employed the crush and strain method, the substance should have been progressively poured into the strainer. This is what you should aim for when straining to avoid clogs. To ensure that the honey is correctly filtered, remove any large chunks of comb from the strainer.

• The waiting period

After you have filtered all the honey, store it in a covered bucket. To prevent particles or insects from getting into your freshly strained honey, make sure the bucket is securely closed with a lid. Allow the honey to rest at room temperature for three days. This allows any air bubbles in the honey to rise to the surface before bottling.

• Bottle and skim

When the three days are up, unscrew the bucket’s lid. If there were air bubbles in the honey, they would be visible on top. Skim the air bubbles from the top of the honey like you would the cream from the top of milk. When it has been extracted, the product should be bottled and stored until use or sale.

Reviews of the Best Honey Strainers

1. VIVO Stainless Steel Double Sieve Honey Strainer

This is VIVO’s newest honey strainer, which has a double sieve to thoroughly filter out contaminants from the honey. The repeated straining procedure ensures that the filtering is as smooth as possible. The VIVO BEE-V101H Honey Strainer has two independent screens for effective filtration. It is made of 304 stainless steel, which is oxidation and rust resistant, long-lasting, and simple to clean. Aside from these characteristics, the VIVO BEE-V101H Honey Strainer’s key selling point is its ease of use.

This strainer is covered by a one-year warranty. It removes the risk of acquiring the goods, and the manufacturer pledges to stand by their product if you are unhappy with it or have any problems during the first year.

Pros

• Easy to clean
• Quality mesh in the sieve
• Does a good job filtering; no additional filtering products or honey restraint should be required before bottling.

Cons

• The use of a double sieve can make it harder for gravity to pull the honey through to strain.

2. Mann Lake HH440 Stainless Steel Honey Strainer

The Mann Lake Honey Strainer has a double sieve design as well. This design is effective for extracting large and small contaminants from raw honey. This honey strainer is noted for its lightweight design, which is advantageous while straining honey. The strainer also includes a handle that can be adjusted. This is a fantastic addition because it has shown to improve the strainer’s fit on a bucket. However, it also helps it fit on other containers.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Double sieve design
• Adjustable handle which makes the strainer an easier fit over different sized containers

Cons

• There have been reports of shipping and packaging difficulties.

3. Fasmov Stainless Steel Double Sieve Honey Strainer

The Fasmov Honey Strainer can be a good choice for a beginner beekeeper. The strainer has been designed to suit most food-grade buckets uniformly. It also includes adjustable arms for suspending the strainer above the bucket. Despite the fact that this honey strainer has a twin sieve design, the two screens may be divided into two independent parts. This is ideal if you only want to separate large bits of honeycomb from the honey because you can use the sieve with the larger mesh. If you want to fine-sift your honey, use the sieve with smaller pores. The best thing about the strainer separating is that it makes cleaning easy.

Pros

• Most buckets and containers are universally compatible.
• Adjustable arms keep the strainer suspended over most containers and allow for simple installation.
• Dishwasher-safe item

Cons

• Mesh is a delicate material and not wide enough to cover the opening of every container

4. Goodland Bee Supply Food Grade 304 Double Sieve Honey Strainer

The Goodland Bee Supply double sieve strainer is an essential piece of equipment for beekeepers. It is also an excellent tool for those working in the food business who process honey and syrup. It comes with a 10-inch basket that is 5 inches tall. This strainer’s extensible arms allow it to easily fit over a 5-gallon container or bucket. It can be extended to a length of 16 inches, making it one of the most adaptable strainers on the market. This honey strainer is made of 304 food grade stainless steel, which is strong and resistant to oxidation and rust.

Pros

• Fits most five-gallon buckets
• Has a double sieve design to eliminate bigger debris and smaller contaminants before bottling.
• Lightweight product that makes the beekeeper’s straining procedure easier.

Cons

• If stainless steel is not properly dried or kept, it might rust.

5. Blisstime Honey Harvesting Starter Kit

A double sieve honey strainer is included in the Blisstime Honey Harvesting Starter Kit. The strainer is nine inches in diameter and deeper than most other honey strainers on the market. This is thought to speed up the straining process. A frame holder, an uncapping fork, and a honey gate are all included in the set. These items are required to transport your honey from the frame to the jar. They are built of robust materials such as stainless steel and are intended to last a long time.

Pros

• Great value and convenient for new beekeepers
• Deeper strainer may help the process go faster
• Constructed from durable products such as stainless steel

Cons

• Because the strainer has a smaller diameter, wax may bypass the straining process, requiring the honey to be refiltered.

6. Mr. Garden Novo Stainless Steel Double Sieve Honey Strainer

Mr. Garden Novo Double Sieve Stainless Steel Strainer is exactly what you will need to process clean honey. It is quite simple to use: simply lay it over a bucket, pour honey into it, and leave it for a few minutes. Mr. Garden Novo Stainless Steel Double Sieve Strainer is made of stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion and rust. It is also simple to clean. Impurities and foreign items are captured on the double mesh arrangement during filtering honey. This enables for a seamless procedure that results in a consistently clean and light-colored liquid.

Pros

• Pretty light and easy to use
• Made of stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion and rust

Cons

• If stainless steel is not properly dried or kept, it might rust.

7. Navadeal Stainless Steel Double Honey Filter Strainer

While you wait for the honey to be thoroughly filtered, you can do other things with the Navadeal Stainless Steel Double Honey Strainer. Simply place this strainer in a bucket and leave it till it is finished. This strainer is made of stainless steel, which is long-lasting and resistant to corrosion and rust. It’s also simple to clean; simply toss it in the dishwasher and you’re done. The arms will fit securely around the bucket, providing stability while filtering. The use of two sieves ensures that your honey is free of dirt and other impurities.

Pros

• Gives you the ability to work on other activities
• Made of stainless steel
• It only weighs 1.94 pounds so it’s not a hassle carrying it around.
• Easy to clean

Cons

• If stainless steel is not properly dried or kept, it might rust.

8. Dusichin DUS-121 Stainless Steel Double Sieve Honey Strainer

This inexpensive double sieve honey strainer is well worth the money. It works really effectively, as many veteran beekeepers have demonstrated. It is so simple and effective that purifying honey no longer takes up a lot of your valuable time. The DUSICHIN DUS-121 Stainless Steel Honey Strainer is composed of 304 food quality stainless steel, which is oxidation and corrosion resistant, long-lasting, and simple to clean. The top screen has a coarse mesh that quickly filters big contaminants, while the lower screen has a finer mesh that separates even the smallest particle from the honey.

Pros

• Composed of 304 food quality stainless steel
• Long-lasting, and simple to clean
• This is the cheapest but most effective device

Cons

• If stainless steel is not properly dried or kept, it might rust.

Conclusion

Here are the top honey strainers available on the market. Despite differences in manufacturer, these amazing items have one thing in common that is required in beekeeping today: Convenience. Beekeeping is already time-consuming, so a little extra ease guarantees a more delightful time with the bees.

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Do Skunks Eat Bees? How To Protect Bees?

Beekeeping is practiced as both a pastime and a business all over the world. Bees and honey benefit humans in a variety of ways, including nutrition, pollination, and medicine. However, the diminishing bee population threatens agricultural and human well-being. As a result, bee protection is a key problem. Skunks are one of the most dangerous predators. So, do skunks eat bees? In this article, we will talk about how to protect bees from skunks.

What is Skunks?

Skunks are classified into four species. The most frequent ones are the stripped skunk, hooded skunk, spotted skunk, and hog nosed skunk. They are fur-lined to keep the cold at bay. They have a black and white color scheme. An adult skunk is around 2 feet tall and has a tail that measures 7-10 inches in length. They weigh between 3 and 12 pounds. They have distinct adaptive characteristics, such as shyness and secrecy. Skunks do not hibernate, yet they are active at night.

Skunks mate in their dens throughout the winter. After two months of gestation, the female skunk gives birth to 4-6 offspring. Young skunks usually stay with their mothers to nurse and be fed until fall or a year. Striped skunks achieve sexual maturity at the age of twelve months and can live for up to three years. They can survive for up to ten years in captivity.

What do Skunks eat?

Skunks are omnivorous animals that eat both plant and animal matter. Worms, fruits, and insects such as the Japanese beetle, tobacco worms, potato bugs, small reptiles and rodents are their main sources of food. They frequently dig cone-shaped holes in lawns in search of food, overturn large sections of insect-rich turf, and dine on small mammals, ground nesting birds, and eggs.

Do Skunks eat bees?

Skunks do, in fact, devour bees. They are incredibly cunning in how they lure the bees to leave their hives. They employ a scratching technique to get access to the beehive. When the bees investigate the scratch, they come out of the beehive and become easy prey for the skunks. Skunks eat insects; they chew bees, remove the juices from their bodies, and then spit out the remaining solid pieces. They also do significant damage to the beehive.

Protecting beehives from Skunks.

To cope with skunks, beekeepers might employ a variety of tactics. It is recommended that each issue be assessed independently in order to choose the appropriate course of action for the situation.

• Make use of lighting and sounds

Skunks prefer the dark, which is why they are more active at night and less so during the day. Skunks do not have exceptional eyesight. They will be able to view the two glowing LED lights, which they will compare to predator eyes. Because the lights are static, they will most likely abandon the area. A radio is used to generate the desired sounds. However, you should avoid using any type of lighting, such as white light, because it has a bad impact on honey bee behavior and cycles.

• Make use of traps

Skunks can be caught using live or foot-hold traps. The traps are protected by a plastic cover. You can also utilize wooden box traps, which function in the same way. The majority of the traps are put near the den site over multiple nights to guarantee that all skunks are caught. Canned cat food, peanut butter, chicken, or fish scraps make excellent skunk bait.

>>> Read more: How To Save Bees – Everything You Should Do

• Maintain a clean environment.

Skunks are attracted to garbage, food leftovers, and kitchen trash. To address this issue, safe waste management is implemented. Beside that It is also critical to eliminate rodents in order to reduce this attraction. Skunks can find cover in heaps of wood, fence posts, and scrap metals, which may encourage them to stay and reproduce in the region. One of the most important tasks in preventing skunks is to clean up after them.

• Raise the hive.

Set hives at least 18 inches, or 3 feet, above the ground. This prevents skunks from entering the building. When a skunk stands on its hind legs, its delicate underbelly is exposed to stings, and it can soon get disheartened.

• Using deflections

Although striped skunks do not generally climb, an aluminum guard is installed around the bottoms of hives to prevent the skunk from ascending.

• Nitrogen fertilizer

Spread a heavy nitrogenous fertilizer on the ground, causing a burning sensation or effect on the skunk’s feet and susceptible underbelly.

• Plywood with nails

Draw a bunch of nails through a two-foot-square plank of plywood and place it in front of the hive with the nail points pointing up. This is a skunk snare. Just remember to keep the plank in mind when you’re stomping around the hive.

DIY Skunks trap

• Boil the peppers, onion, and jalapeno in water for 5-7 minutes, then set aside to cool.
• Predator or pet urine.
• Fill buckets with ammonia-soaked rags and place them around the perimeter of your yard.

If you have planted crops on the side, such as maize or millet, these will keep skunks out of reach as they get bigger. Skunks like shorter plants, so anything that is inaccessible will keep them away.

To prevent attracting the attention of invaders such as skunks, keep trash in hidden areas. Avoid leaving them out in the open. You should also use tight and animal proof covers to prevent rodents and skunks out.

Conclusion

Skunks and other predators are always a danger to bees and their hives. To avoid losses, protection against these predators must be prioritized from the start. Understanding habits and needs of skunks can prevent destruction of beehives and other unpleasant encounters. It can also help to formulate customized strategies to deal with skunks.

>>> Read more: Best Honey Extractors Review 2021

Top 10 best bee smokers for the money

Because of the lulling impact it has on the small animals, smoke is commonly utilized while working with bees. It interferes with their natural protective instinct, causing them not to sting you, making it easier to operate on the beehive. That is why the bee smoker is such an essential piece of beekeeping equipment. There are many different varieties of bee smokers available, making it simple to find the appropriate one for your company or pastime. In this post, we will show you Top 10 best bee smokers for the money.

What is a bee smoker?

For millennia, humans have used smoke to quiet bee colonies. While the original honey collectors most likely used a smoldering flame to make smoke, beekeepers nowadays often utilize a hand-held smoker. Most modern bee smokers have three major components: a chamber to hold smoldering material, a nozzle to guide the smoke, and a bellows to pump fresh air into the chamber and drive smoke out of the nozzle.

What to look for when purchasing a bee smoker?

When shopping for a bee smoker, there are numerous factors to consider.

• Ease of Use & Durability

To ensure that your smoker will survive, look for smokers built of sturdy materials. Stainless steel is the most commonly used material. It is of good quality and will last for a long time. Do not buy a smoker that may break or distort in a short period of time.

Look for smokers that have been built with the user in mind. Check that the smoker can be pumped with with one hand. A mounting hook is included with high-quality smokers. When not in use, the smoker may be hung up using a mounting hook. It also allows the smoker to securely cool down after usage.

• Bellow Material

Bee smoker bellows are typically composed of one of three materials: leather, vinyl, or rubber. Assess your particular requirements to determine which is best for your beekeeping activities. Some beekeepers prefer rubber bellows because they last longer. Leather and vinyl are still excellent materials for a smoker’s bellow.

• Heat protection cage

A heat-protection cage is the standard for high-quality smokers. A heat protection cage keeps your hands from being burned when operating the smoker. You will want to make sure the cage is built of a long-lasting material that will keep you safe from the extreme heat.

Top 10 Best Bee Smokers

VIVO BEE-V001 Beehive Smoker with Heat Shield

The VIVO Bee Hive Smoker is a popular among beekeepers of all skill levels. It is composed of stainless steel, which makes it long-lasting and generates cool smoke. This high-quality device also has a heat barrier that protects the smoker from burns. The VIVO smoker has a mounting hook for storing the tool properly. Leather is used to make the bellows. VIVO backs up their goods with a 6-month warranty.

The disadvantage of utilizing this product is that the leather bellows occasionally need to be replaced.

Mann Lake HD540 Stainless Steel Smoker

This smoker is constructed of heavy-duty stainless steel. With a 10-inch height and a 4-inch diameter, it’s easy to transport. The smoker weighs around 1.81 pounds and is light enough to be lifted with one hand for hive inspections. This device has a heat guard to keep the user safe from burns. It also has a mounting hook for secure storage. The Mann Lake smoker includes a replaceable rubber bellow.

The product’s drawback is that the lid does not always fit well, requiring the user to spend extra time to close it, and it is more expensive than other smokers on the market.

Flexzion Bee Hive Smoker

The Flexzion Bee Hive Smoker is a high-quality smoker that is reasonably priced for every beekeeper. This smoker is constructed of heavy-duty stainless steel. It is a lightweight gadget that is 10.6 inches tall and weighs 1.9 pounds. It has a mounting hook that allows it to be mounted on the side of the hive box for secure storage during inspections. The device has a built-in heat barrier to keep users from getting burnt. Furthermore, the Flexzion smoker is popular with deer hunters, who use it for hours to mask their scent.

What we do not like about it is how tough it is to open and seal the lid. During the event, some people were burnt when they attempted to touch the lid.

MUDUOBAN Electric Bee Hive Smoker

The smoker is a portable smoker that replaces the bellow with an electric fan. The smoker is constructed of stainless steel. It’s a little device that weighs 1.75 pounds and stands 11.5 inches tall. This high-quality device also has a heat barrier that protects the smoker from burns. The MUDUOBAN electric smoker has a side mounting hook for secure storage. The smoke is grown using a battery-powered blower. This device is powered by four “AA” batteries. This electric bee smoker is ideal for hobbyists and commercial beekeepers.

The disadvantages of this gadget are that the battery is not included, and there are no instructions.

Blisstime Bee Hive Smoker

Another excellent choice for beekeepers is the Blisstime Bee Hive Smoker. It’s composed of stainless steel, which makes it long-lasting and generates cool smoke. This high-quality device also has a heat barrier that protects the smoker from burns. The Blisstime smoker has a mounting hook for secure storage. With each order, you will also receive 54 pieces of smoker pellets. The pellets are produced from natural plant and herb extracts. The pellets are ideal for smoking 1-2 hives or as a starting for any other smoker fuel. Its endurance and low cost make it an excellent choice for beginning beekeepers.

The smoker weighs around 2.15 pounds, making it bulkier than other versions on the market.

Foxhound Bee Company Large Pro Stainless Steel Bee Smoker

The Foxhound Bee Company Large Pro Smoker is a durable and efficient large smoker. This smoker is composed of stainless steel, which makes it long-lasting. With a height of 12.5 inches and a diameter of 4 inches, this smoker is bigger than comparable units on the market. Despite having a bigger chamber, this smoker weighs only 1.95 pounds. The big size is perfect for beekeepers who examine several hives at once. To prevent burns and fires during inspections, this smoker has a heat barrier surrounding the smoking chamber. It comes with a mounting hook for secure storage. It features air pockets at the bottom to improve airflow and generate more smoke.

This product is free of flaws.

Honey Keeper Bee Hive Smoker

The Honey Keeper Bee Hive Smoker is composed of stainless steel, making it long-lasting and producing cool smoke. The smoker stands 11 inches tall and weighs around 2.3 pounds. This high-quality device also has a heat barrier that protects the smoker from burns. When not in use, the Honey Keeper smoker has a hook to securely hang it. There is a heat aerator that extends the life of the smoke and improves airflow. The bellow is made of a leather material that is long-lasting even after repeated usage.

There have been several concerns regarding the product, namely that the elevated platform will slide off when the ashes are disposed of.

Hoont Commercial Grade Bee Smoker for Beekeeping

The Hoont Commercial Grade Bee Smoker is an excellent alternative for inexperienced beekeepers. This smoker is built of heavy-duty stainless steel, making it long-lasting. The device stands 11 inches tall and weighs 1.75 pounds. To prevent burns and fires during inspections, this smoker has a heat barrier surrounding the smoking chamber. It comes with a metal mounting hook for secure storage. The bellows are constructed of durable vinyl, making it simple to generate smoke rapidly. It’s an excellent smoker for individuals with less than ten hives.

One consumer issue is that the bellows are not standardized and so can not be changed.

CO-Z Bee Smoker Stainless Steel Beehive Smoker

This smoker is made of stainless steel. It’s a handy gadget that stands 12 inches tall and weighs only 1.64 pounds. The CO-Z smoker has a mounting hook that allows it to be mounted on the side of the hive box for secure storage during inspections. The device has a built-in heat barrier to keep users from getting burnt. A detachable, perforated base plate allows for maximum ventilation. This device has vinyl bellows that will last for a long period.

Some consumers said the lid was too fragile and the hinge holding the top had quite loose.

Goodland Bee Supply Bee Hive Smoker

The Goodland Bee Supply Bee Hive smoker was created with the end user in mind. This smoker is constructed of polished stainless steel. With an 11-inch height, it is easy to transport. This device has a heat guard to keep you safe from burns. It has a perforated smoke pellet stand to provide adequate airflow. This variant has a mounting hook for secure storage. It has a detachable interior burn tray that makes cleanup a breeze.

The Goodland Bee Supply is intended to be used while wearing beekeeping gloves, reducing the possibility of dropping the unit. This pack also includes three smoke logs made primarily of mugwort. Finally, this smoker is suitable for both novice and experienced beekeepers.

There are no flaws in this product.

>>> View more: TOP 10 Best Fuel For Bee Smoker & Buying Guide

What is the best way to use a Bee Smoker?

A bee smoker works by introducing carbon smoke into the hive. A match or lighter, newspaper, a combustible starting material, and smoker fuel are required to start a smoker. A smoker’s fuel can be made from a variety of materials. Cotton fiber, wood, pine needles, wood pellets, and burlap are the most frequent.

The following are the fundamental procedures for igniting a bee smoker:

• Place some old newspaper on the bottom of the smoker and burn it.
• Squeeze the bellows to keep the newspaper burning.
• Fill the burner with kindling, such as dry twigs or pine cones, until it is about ¾ percent filled.
• Once the kindling is blazing, add your preferred fuel.
• Using the bellows, create a cold, white smoke.

Alternatives to the Standard Bee Smoker

Among the alternatives to smoking are:

• Liquid sprays

This is commonly referred to as spritz spray and is composed of a sugar combination as well as additions such as Honey-B-Healthy. This is excellent at calming the bees, but its main disadvantage is that it becomes trapped in the bees. Another issue with liquid sprays is that they harm developing larvae and can attract robber bees. It is also ineffective during winter since it might cause bees to freeze.

• Liquid Bee Smoke

This is created from concentrated liquid and is safe and suitable for human consumption. It is a particularly feasible solution for individuals who work in fire-restricted regions or want a portable alternative.

• Other options include CO2 and N2.

What should you do with your bee smoker when it is done?

Most beekeepers simply choose a secure location away from dry grass and dispose of the hot smoker fuel. This appears to work well, however it is not the correct method to deal with a smoker after they have smoked. To use the smoker, just lay a piece of paper on top of the canister and close the lid. This will obstruct incoming air and smother the internal fire. The gasoline will also be in good shape and ready for use on your next smoking job.

Conclusion

Choose one of the finest bee smokers listed above to guarantee you go about your job effectively and without getting stung or burned by bees. It also helps to reduce bee loss, which is common when bees are squashed when removing and replacing frames. However, you need take proper care of your bee smoker in order to increase its effectiveness and extend its life.

Related Posts:

• What Happens If You Leave Honey Supers On During Apivar Treatment
• How Much Beeswax A Hive Produce?

How To Get Rid Of Honey Bees Without Killing Them?

Most of us are aware of the critical role that bees play in the environment. Keeping bees in the house, on the other hand, can be risky because they can sting us. Then there is the issue of how to get rid of the bees without killing them?

Learning how to get rid of bees is beneficial for individuals who wish to tackle the problem on their own. We should discuss why we should discover a solution to get rid of bees without harming them. Why should we get rid of bees around the house and six natural techniques to get rid of bees. It’s time to learn how to keep bees at bay, so you may enjoy your yard and house without fear of being stung.

Bees are important

When we think of bees, we usually do not consider them positively. Stinging is the first thought that comes to mind. Bee stings not only cause pain to humans, but they also kill the bee colony. But do not forget that bees are critical to our planet’s survival.

Bees provide a large portion of the food that humans and other mammals consume. Despite the fact that there are other additional pollination methods, bees account for roughly one-sixth of all pollination. They pollinate specific agricultural crops — our food.

So, do we require bees? Yes, but there are occasions when we must be cautious about bees.

Why should you get rid of bees?

This may appear to be a strange question, but bees are significantly less dangerous than we are taught and are essential to ecology. It might be a good idea to ask yourself a few key questions to determine whether your bees truly need to leave.

• Am I allergic?

This is the most critical question you must ask. There are those who are so allergic to bees that they could die from a single sting. If you have a bee allergy in your household, it is critical that you do everything possible to keep bees away from your home. Learning how to get rid of bees is a skill that could save us.

• Are they in your living space?

The most troublesome nests are those found within the walls of your home, shed, or car. These nests are the most likely to sting you and may potentially cause structural damage if left unattended. Removal or extermination is a top priority in these situations.

• Do you have a garden?

Bees are not only pollinators, but they also help defend your plants from a variety of harmful insects. Consider them to be labor in exchange for basic accommodation and board.

• Do you have kids?

Having children (whether two or four legged) can alter the rules. While they are not in danger, no one wants to be stung, and playing too close to a nest can result in this. In this scenario, removal is the best solution.

Identifying bees and their kin

When you see a yellow flash, it’s easy to believe you have a bee. But the truth is that wasps, wasps, and wasps all have the same appearance but different personalities. More importantly, some species are considered beneficial and may even be protected. Here are the four most important categories you may have heard of:

• Africanized bee

They are a hybrid of African and European species. The original intention was to generate a more disease-resistant species. They are slightly smaller and more nimble than regular honey bees.

These hybrids produce more honey for beekeepers. However, they are also more irritable and will protect the hive in large numbers. This makes them dangerous for the average person.

• Bumble bees

While they do not produce honey, bumble bees are among the most important pollinators in the wild. Pollen accumulates in their thick thorax hair and their legs as they go from blossom to bloom in search of nectar.

Bumble bees are generally docile unless disturbed. The United States is home to approximately 40 species, two of which are on the verge of extinction. Because bumble bees nests are only temporary, it is usually best to leave them untouched when possible.

• Carpenter bee

Carpenter ants are not to be mistaken with them. Because it tends to burrow in rotten or hollow wood, this species of solitary bee is sometimes accused of causing damage to wood. These bees prefer to go about their work, only defending themselves when absolutely necessary.

• Honey bee

Honey bees are critical to the ecology and are recovering from a severe decrease. Their honey is a vital source of nutrition for people and other animals. Their wax is also a versatile and valuable item. Honey bees are known to sting if their hive is attacked and to communicate with one another through a complicated dance language.

How to get rid of bees without killing them?

When learning how to remove bees, safety should always come first. The best time to complete the task is after nightfall, when the bees are sleeping. Heavy clothing, gloves, and eyewear are all effective strategies to avoid stinging.

There are various natural methods for getting rid of bees. Some of these strategies are environmentally friendly yet kill bees, while others are beneficial to both bees and the environment. Here are six methods for getting rid of bees.

• Call a beekeeper

If you live in an area where you can find a beekeeper, this is an amazing first choice. Beekeepers are professionals when it comes to working with bees. A beekeeper would more than likely love to take the bee hive and take care of the bees and keep them alive.

• Soda

Sweet liquids are a favorite of bees. This approach entails cutting a soft drink bottle or can in half. Then, put it in an area where you see a lot of bees. The soda will attract bees, who will come to sip it. This strategy is environmentally beneficial, but it will kill the bees because they will drown in fresh water.

• Moth balls

Mothballs are one of the unpleasant odors that bees dislike. To use mothballs, hang them near the bee nest and the fragrance will eventually dissuade the bees from returning. You can also place mothballs in various locations throughout your yard to keep bees at bay.

• Vinegar spray solution

Vinegar spray is a terrific natural approach to getting bees out of your yard. Simply combine equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle, shake, and spray the mixture over the nest when the bees are sleeping, at night, and around plants where you see a lot of bees.

• Cinnamon

If you find a hive and wish to relocate the bees without killing them, sprinkle cinnamon around the beehive every day for about a week. The odor will set the bees on the hunt for a new home.

• Bee repelling plants

Planting bee repelling plants around your home is an excellent technique to keep bees out of your yard without killing them. Having these plants around your home should deter bees from coming in. Citronella, mint, and eucalyptus plants are effective bee repellents that are also easy to grow.

When to call in a professional?

Even if you are comfortable attempting to get rid of the bees yourself, there will be instances when consulting a professional will be your best option. Bees can build nests in awkward places such as the ground, your home’s siding, and other difficult-to-reach areas. This is what specialists do for a living, so make use of their knowledge.

Conclusion

Although bees are crucial for pollination, agriculture, and honey production for humans, we must be conscious of the threats they bring to our living environments due to their toxic stings. Keep in mind that the population of bees is also declining. Just do not freak out if you come upon a bee. Instead, utilize one of the strategies for dealing with bees listed above. Let us defend ourselves from stinging bees without killing them.

How To You Use A Honey Extractor? Step By Step

Honey extractors are very useful equipment. Even though their requirements are debatable, if used correctly, they can boost your honey harvest. They may appear to be complex pieces of technology, but using them is easier than you may think.

This procedure is excellent since the wax and comb are preserved and may be returned to the hive. In principle, it appears simple, but how to use the honey extractor? Do not be afraid of them. We are going to demonstrate how simple it is to utilize a honey extractor. You do not need a physics degree to comprehend them, just like you don’t need one for other pieces of beekeeping equipment.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What are honey extractors?

Maybe you already know, but we want to briefly say again what is a honey extractor?

Honey extractors are simple equipment that extracts honey without breaking or harming the combs. They are ideal for beekeepers that plan to sell their honey commercially or who need to produce as much honey as possible. The fact that honey extractors are expensive. They are not always worthwhile if you aren’t making a profit or your honey production is low.

Getting ready

Before you begin extraction, make sure you are fully prepared. Make sure that you have all of your tools clean and ready to go. You should gather the following tools:

• An extractor.
• A hot knife (a plugin knife that heats up) – used for cutting off wax cappings on the honeycomb.
• A strainer – any strainer you like that has fine pores (some beekeepers even use pantyhose).
• A bucket – used for collecting extracted honey.
• A measuring cup – used for pouring the extracted honey into smaller containers.
• A cookie sheet – used for catching wax cappings which are cut off with the hot knife.
• Honey jars – used for storing honey.

Extraction of honey

Honey extraction with a honey extractor is straightforward and can be accomplished in a few simple steps.

Collect your frames

Fully capped combs should be removed from your hive, ideally the day before. Make careful to keep the combs somewhere inside where bees can’t get to them. Because bees can follow their honey quite well, don’t let them sniff or reach for it.

Choose a location

Once you have decided on a location, position the extractor so that it is easy to navigate around. You can place a bucket beneath its bottom spigot to collect the extracted honey. To make the process go more smoothly, you should lay a strainer on top of the bucket so the honey can be filtered immediately.

Uncap the honey

With the hot knife, you may remove the honey cap. Be extremely cautious in this phase since the hot knife heats up quickly and can cause severe burns if it comes into touch with your skin.

After heating the knife, you can use it to slit the sides of the comb to reveal the liquid honey. Do not rush this step if you do not want to cut the comb too deeply. You should cut only 1 centimeter.

Use the extractor

After removing the caps, insert the combs within the honey extractor baskets. Depending on the type of extractor you have, you may have to spin the combs manually or automatically.

The crankshaft handle on manually operated honey extractors spins the combs. The centrifugal force draws the honey out onto the inside wall of the extractor by spinning the combs. The honey then oozes down the sides and pours out of the bottom spigot. As the honey flows from the faucet, it gathers.

The spinning of the combs may cause the honey extractor to become unstable, especially if the spinning is quick. The quicker they spin, though, the more honey is extracted.

After spinning for at least 1 minute, you should check if the honey has come out from the side opposite the inner wall of the extractor. If there is any remaining honey, spin it some more. Otherwise, turn the frame around and extract the opposite side. When you’re finished with the current batch, add more frames and repeat the process until all frames are completed.

Collect the honey

It could take a few minutes before you notice any honey seeping from the spigot. When it first starts, it normally takes 1-2 hours to collect and filter data.

When the honey has stopped seeping, transport the bucket to where you will fill the jars. You can place a bowl beneath the spigot in case some honey drips later. As a result, you will not have to clean it up on the floor.

Store the honey in jars

Empty frames should be returned to the hives. They will repair the combs and replenish them with honey shortly after you return to them. As you can see, the procedure is quite simple, and one may do it effectively. But, do not forget to clean the honey extractor and any tools used to avoid attracting bees.

Because honey is water-soluble, you can clean things with hot water. You can place the wax left over from cutting off comb caps on a cookie sheet and give it to bees for a few hours. They will remove all the honey from the wax, which you may then store for future use.

Conclusion

Why not use a honey extractor to extract all the honey fast and easily? If you don’t have enough money right now, you can use used honey extracting equipment. Don’t let a brilliant device like this go to waste.

TOP 5 Best Beekeeping Veil 2021 For You

Searching for the best beekeeping veil is essential to beekeepers because the face and head are the most important and vulnerable parts of the human body. And the good beekeeping veil needs to provide the best protection for your face while maintaining the most visibility and comfort possible. Let us give you the recommendations, some pointers on how to pick the best one for yours, and answer some questions you may have.

A Buying Guide for A Good Beekeeping Veil

The four things to keep in mind while purchasing a beekeeping veil are protection, visibility, comfort, and affordability. The best beekeeping veils should satisfy all of those criteria.

Protection

The veil and the hat that it comes with should provide adequate protection. The mesh needs to be smaller than the smallest bee and doesn’t fall flat on your head and face. The hat needs to bee-proof as well. Compatibility between your veil and your suit or jacket is also an important factor.

Visibility

You should be able to look clearly through the mesh. Peripheral vision should not be obstructed. And if you are working with a hive above, your veil and your hat should not limit your vision.

Comfort

To work effectively you need a veil with good ventilation and allow you to move comfortably. Either with drawstrings or straps, it should not come in the way of your movement.

Affordability

If you are a professional, you probably treat this as an investment so affordability is obviously important. And if not, you still perhaps need to stay within your hobby budget.

5 Best Beekeeping Veils to Fend Off Bee Stings

Below are our top choices in five categories. We hope that there is one for you there.

Goodland Bee Supply Beekeepers Hat Veil – Best Overall

The first place belongs to Goodland Bee Supply Beekeepers Hat Veil. This veil is a balance of protection, visibility, comfort, and affordability.

All requirements of a good beekeeping veil are satisfied with this product thanks to its materials and design. The hat is made from cotton and hemp. This natural cotton lightweight fabric is just as protective as other heavy-duty ones.

You can see and breathe easily through the veil. The round configuration provides a 360- degree view. Plus, it stays at a comfortable distance and doesn’t fall on your face or your neck.

The item has a fedora-esque look, so convincing your friend or family to get into your hobby/work and be your assistance for a day won’t be a hassle. The underarm straps are also more handy and approachable for non-professionals compared to traditional drawstrings.

For such a well-rounded product, this veil has a pretty nice price. Beginners won’t have to think twice about buying this item.

As we said, this is our best overall pick, so there is no downside for you to worry about.

What do we like?

• Solid protection
• Clear visibility
• Great ventilation
• Fashionable design
• Affordable price

What can be improved?

• None

Natural Apiary Beekeeping Suit with Fencing Veil – Best Full Suit with Veil

If you are seeking head to ankle protection, this beekeeping suit is for you. Natural Apiary Beekeeping Suit is a smartly designed product that comes in various sizes and colors.

The best feature of this item is its smart design. The veil is made from non-flammable material to protect you from accidents with smokers. The sudden flash flame is an existing risk of using smokers – an essential tool of beekeepers. You can trust this non-flammable veil in unfortunate events.

Another innovative feature of the suit is two elastic stirrup straps. These straps run around the bottom of your feet to prevent the legs from riding up. Combined with a zipper on each leg, the straps will keep the legs stay snugly around your ankle.

There are also two large pockets on the chest area so you can keep your tools right next to your body. You will find these two pockets very handy because working with thousands of tiny creatures can be quite chaotic sometimes.

The suit comes in eight sizes and six colors. You can choose the one that fits you no matter if you are petite or bulky with a detailed chart from the manufacturers. The colors range from white to pink and to camouflage.

One thing that can be improved with this product is its ventilation. The suit will be pretty hot to wear after a while. And if you don’t like the narrowed view of a fencing veil, that will be another problem.

What do we like?

• Non-flammable veil
• Elastic stirrup straps
• Additional pockets
• Various sizes and colors
• Comprehensive size chart

What can be improved?

• Limited ventilation

Foxhound Beekeeping Jacket with Round Veil – Best Beekeeping Jacket with Veil

You will feel secure once you put on this Foxhound Beekeeping jacket. The nice weight cotton fabric is stronger than any bee stinger and elastic waist and cuffs prevent bees from crawling up inside your jacket.

With a round veil and large brimmed hat, the product ensures visibility and ventilation. You can comfortably work in this jacket in a long session.

The item comes in two sizes, large and extra large. But thanks to its neatly unisex design, you won’t be annoyed by extra fabrics come in your way while you are working.

Two other notable features of the product are pull ring zippers and an additional velcro patch. The pull ring zippers are designed to be easily pulled up and down with gloves while the velcro patch covers the zippers for extra safety.

One minus point of the jacket is its veil zipper. It is not particularly easy to attach the veil to the jacket the first time you try.

What do we like?

• High-quality material
• Excellent visibility
• Splendid ventilation
• Unisex design
• Pull ring zippers
• Velcro patch

What can be improved?

• Non-intuitive veil zipper

Read more: How To Clean Beekeeping Gloves: For All Types of Gloves

Forest Beekeeping Jacket with Round Veil – Best Round Veil with A Variety of Sizes

If you are looking for a beekeeping jacket with a veil but have a small build, this product may suit you. There are five different sizes from Small to 2XL that can fit all kinds of builds. The manufacturer even provides detailed size descriptions for reference.

The round veil keeps the mesh away from your face, unlike the fencing ones. That means more ventilation and less risk. The mesh is flame resistant too.

Two other plus points are strong metal zippers and thumb straps. The brass heavy-duty zippers work very smoothly and reliably. And the thumb straps are there to prevent the sleeves from running up and exposing your wrist.

About the jacket, it is made from thick, sting-proof material. The cotton canvas will have you covered even under the heaviest rain of bees.

But you might want to wear a baseball cap under the hat while shaking down a tree. The reasons are that the hat is quite flimsy and the veil will fall on your face when you are looking up.

What do we like?

• Multiple sizes
• Decent visibility
• Flame resistance mesh
• Strong metal zippers
• Thumb straps
• Sting-proof material

What can be improved?

• Flimsy hat

BeesNise Beekeepers Hat – Best Price

The last item is the most affordable one. If you want a quick replacement for the veil of your suit or a multiple-purpose veil, this can be an economic choice. It can be used in beekeeping or against bugs and insects in general.

Even though it comes with a relatively low price, this is still a decent product. The mesh and the hat are durable enough and allow great air flows.

Unlike many veils sold alone, this product does not have two drawstrings to tie around your waist. Instead, it has a unique handy mechanism of two under-arm straps. Plus, there is a chin strap and flexible bands for adjustment.

There are two downsides to this hat. It has only one size and is kind of small. The other drawback is the under-arm straps can be uncomfortable, especially if the hat is not your size.

What do we like?

• Affordable price
• Multi-purposes
• Decent quality
• Handy straps and band

What can be improved?

• Only has one size
• Relatively small
• Short under-arm straps

Frequently Asked Questions

Now we will answer some FAQs regarding beekeeping in general and beekeeping veils in particular. We hope that that information will help you and your friends and family stay safe.

Are Bee Stings Dangerous?

Bee is a venomous insect. That means they inject venom into your body when they sting you. The reactions of the body to the venom vary from person to person.

Swelling or redness and itchiness are some normal healthy reactions. If the person is allergic to bees, things can be more severe. For example, he or she may feel lightheaded, have stomach cramps, diarrhea, or vomit.

Anaphylactic reactions, even though they are rare, can be dangerous. The symptoms include swelling of the mouth or throat, shortness of breath, difficulty in swallowing, and shock.  In this case, it is wise to seek medical attention immediately.

If you just start your beekeeping hobby or try to remove a hive in your home by yourself, every safety measure is necessary.

How to Put on A Beekeeping Veil?

It depends on the type of your beekeeping veil. It is pretty straightforward if your veil connects to your jacket or your suit via a zipper or your veil has under-arm straps.

In the case of a stand-alone veil with drawstrings, it is recommended to wrap the drawstrings around your torso then tie them together at your stomach area.

It is advisable to tighten up every adjustment device so bees can’t crawl upon you. A securely put veil shall not fall on your skin or wobbly around when you move.

What Are Other Necessary Equipment for Beekeeping?

Other necessary safety equipment include but is not limited to a jacket and pants or a suit, gloves, duct tape to secure waist, wrist, and ankle areas. All of the above items should be adequate in quality and fit you.

For beginners, some tools that they need to get are hive bodies and supers, frames, foundation, nails, pollen and propolis traps, feeders, and feeding supplies and many more.

Conclusion

The best beekeeping veils are the ones that can provide you with protection, visibility, and comfort while still fitting your wallet. There are many types of beekeeping veils for various degrees of beekeeping, from hobby beekeeping in your garden to catching hostile swarms. The trick is to know what you need and find the one that fits you the most.

Our overall top choice is Goodland Bee Supply Beekeepers Hat Veil because it excellently meets all of our criteria on protection, visibility, ventilation, and affordability. We also recommend the Foxhound Beekeeping Jacket with Round Veil, a jacket with exceptional qualities all around. And if you want even more inclusive protection, Natural Apiary Beekeeping Suit with Fencing Veil with many smart designs like a non-flammable veil and stirrup straps may satisfy your needs.

How to Remove Honey From Frames Without Using an Extractor?

As a small-scale beekeeper, you have already spent a significant amount of money on equipment. Your first year has already cost you several hundred dollars in expenses ranging from hives and frames to bees and protective equipment. When it comes to honey harvesting, removing honey from the comb is a costly undertaking.

The method you choose to extract honey is crucial, since each method has advantages and disadvantages. Cost, time, and colony damage are all factors to consider. One of the most prevalent approaches is to extract honey using machinery known as an extractor. However, it may make sense for you to adopt a different strategy, one that entails how to remove honey from frames without extractor

What do you need to extract honey?

The procedure of removing honey from the frames is known as extraction. Without the comb, the extracted honey is liquid. Before you begin any extraction, you must first prepare yourself:

• Remove the bees: It is critical to extract honey without injuring the worker bees. To get rid of the bees on the frames from which you’re extracting honey, use a bee brush, bee repellent, and/or a bee escape.
• Appropriate location: Extract away from other bees and insects. The flowing honey will attract more insects.
• Uncap: First, uncap the honey before drawing it out. Uncap the honey by dragging a heated knife or a special uncapping knife across the hard beeswax that covers the honey-filled comb.

How to extract honey without an extractor

The following are the standard methods for extracting honey without the use of equipment:

Crush and Strain

This method involves removing the comb and straining out the liquid:

• Cut the comb: After uncapping, cut or scrape the comb off the frame using something like a spatula.
• Collect: Collect it all in a straining container lined with a fine mesh, such as cheesecloth.
• Break it down: Using a potato masher, mash the cut comb until it is as fine as possible.
• Temperature: Warmth helps the honey flow out of the cells, so you can speed up the process by raising the temperature of the extraction area.
• Separate: Strain the honey through the mesh, retaining as much of the solid beeswax, pollen, and other hive components as possible.
• Collect and store: Before putting this honey in jars, collect it in large quantities to remove contaminants.

Cut comb honey

This is the least time-consuming way to enjoy honey. It is not strictly “extraction” because you are still enjoying it in the comb, but it is still out of the frame. All you need is a sharp knife, a baker’s cooling rack or queen excluder, a tray or baking sheet to catch the drips, and final product packaging.

Simply place the cooling rack or queen excluder on the pan or baking sheet. Then place the honey frame on top. With a sharp knife, cut the comb into parts (4-inch squares are popular). Wipe the knife after each cut to keep the comb clean. Allow the chopped pieces to drain for many hours by spacing them slightly apart.

After draining, lay the pieces on tiny food trays or plates and cover them with plastic wrap. Collect the honey on the tray and set it aside for future use when you need extracted honey.

Obviously, if you’ve used plastic foundation, you won’t be able to do this. In honey supers, always use wax foundation, or better yet, go foundationless and let the bees create their own.

Do it yourself extractor (DIY extractor)

Your last choice is to build an extractor. If you don’t want to cut your foundation and have some DIY skills, you can get ideas from others who have made inexpensive extractors.

Some beekeepers create extractors that look like professional ones out of less expensive materials. Some daring harvesters have preserved the extraction concept but radically changed the design. Why not?

The benefits and drawbacks of extracting honey without an extractor

The advantage of this method is that the cost is very low, and the implementation method is simple.

The primary disadvantage of removing honey from the comb without employing an extractor is that it can harm your colony. The cut comb and crush and strain procedures ruin the drawn comb that your bees build before depositing honey.

You must prepare for the hive’s demise. Your bees will require time during the next honey flow to rebuild pulled comb, reducing the amount of honey they can produce. Spending hundreds of dollars on an extractor rather than investing in a new foundation for the following year is still a cost-cutting measure.

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Conclusion

Buying a mechanical extractor makes little economic or environmental sense if you only extract once or twice a year with a small colony. You can extract the honey from your bees without spending hundreds of dollars on an extractor. Crush and strain, cut comb, and DIY extraction are all inexpensive ways to bring the honey flow season to a close.

The cut comb honey process is the quickest and least labor-intensive choice for individuals who want the least amount of fuss. The crush and strain method is the most commonly used way of extracting without the use of an extractor. And DIY extraction is a fantastic choice for the handy and crafty beekeeper.

Related Posts

• Best Honey Extractors Review 2021
• Review of the Vivo Bee-V004E Electric 4 Frame Stainless Steel Honey Extractor

How Far Will Honey Bees Travel From Their Hive?

You run into honey bees everywhere: At your pool, in the streets, and in the gardens while hunting for nectar. You can see honey bees everywhere. Have you ever tried to follow them around to see where they go? Or how far will honey bees fly from their hive?

There are numerous bee species, each with its own set of travel patterns, flying speeds, and distance ranges. To get the most out of your hive as a beekeeper, situate it near local flora or in your bee-friendly flower garden. To accomplish this, you must first understand the traveling pattern and maximum trip distance of your bee species.

How far can honey bees fly away from their hive?

Honey bees often fly across vast swaths of land in search of pollen and nectar. Given their little bee bodies, the area may appear fairly large. With a typical foraging distance of 1–2 miles from their hive, varied situations can lead to lengthier flights. So, what is the maximum distance honey bees may go from their hive? They will go as far as they need to in order to obtain the necessary resources for the colony.

The majority of bee species on the planet are solitary bees. They live alone and have children without the assistance of a huge family. In general, this sort of bee does not need to travel far from home to feed. Despite the fact that sociable Bumble bees may fly a longer distance, most species forage within a mile of their colony.

A honey bee colony, on the other hand, is a massive social organism that relies on the labor of thousands of people to supply resources for the family. As a result, they will travel much further away from home in search of supplies. It takes a lot of effort to feed everyone in the family.

Bees travel long distances for food.

How far will worker bees travel for food? This is a typical worry among beekeepers who want to grow flowers for their hives.

The distance between a food source and the hive is significant in colony formation. The closer food is to the hive, the more bees may collect in a given amount of time. Honey bees can travel a greater distance in search of nourishment. The majority of foraging, however, occurs within a mile or two of the hive. Because they avoid travel time, the colony can collect more food in less time.

When a healthy adult honey bee first leaves the hive, it flies at roughly 15-20 mph. She will fly significantly slower if she is loaded down with honey, pollen, or water — perhaps around 12 mph.

How far do honey bees travel for water?

Honey bees, too, require water! And, similar to nectar collectors, they will fly up to 4-5 kilometers away to find a suitable water source. What the bees consider proper may not be the same as what we consider proper. They will collect water from any damp surface, even if the water is of poor quality.

This is why beekeepers with beehives must supply an appropriate water source for their bees. Native bees require water as well, but in fewer quantities than a honey bee hive. It is a good idea to have a steady water source in your bee-friendly garden.

How far do bees travel in their life?

Too many variables come into play when attempting to determine how far a bee travels in its lifespan. The amount of feed available near the hive, the weather, and the health and age of the bees all have an impact.

In her lifespan, the ordinary worker honey bee will only produce about 1/12 teaspoons of honey. This is why it takes such a many individual bees to support the colony. However, if one bee could do it all, it is predicted that she would have to go 50,000 – 90,000 kilometers to produce one pound of honey.

>>> Read more: Best Honey Extractors Review 2021

How high can honey bees fly?

Honey bees have the ability to soar fairly high above the ground. The air would become colder at greater elevations, which would be a limiting issue. Once the temperature goes too low, the bees would be unable to keep enough heat in their flying muscles to stay aloft.

Do human activities affect a bee’s traveling plans?

To understand how far bees go for food and water, you must be aware of the external variables that have a detrimental impact on them. For example, the use of pesticides tends to impair a bee’s natural activity and flight pattern. It also has a significant impact on their ability to hunt for pollen, nectar, and water.

Pesticide use on agricultural fields must also account for bee flying patterns. The beekeeper who provides pollination in a field wants to ensure that the farmer does not spray toxic chemicals too close to the beehives.

Bees are also harmed by EMF and radiation from technology. They disrupt bees’ inherent compass, making it difficult for bees to travel appropriately and safely. The situation is just as bad for the bees as it is for us because it affects the agricultural landscape and the food supply.

Conclusion

Most bee species have a well-defined migratory range for food and water. Some, such as honeybees and bumblebees, can fly considerable distances in optimal conditions. Others, like solitary bees, fly shorter distances due to energy limits and safety considerations. Understanding how far bees fly on average also assists farmers in determining how many hives are required to pollinate a specific size field or fields.

>>> Read more: How To Get Rid Of Hive Beetles Within Your Bee Hive?

Best Fuel For Bee Smoker 2021

The best fuel for bee smoker can aid the farmer against the infamously fierce insect during hive inspections and honey extractions. Thus, it is an indispensable tool in every beekeeper’s starter pack. 

However, it is not always easy to find the exact smoker fuel that matches their budget and functions well enough. Therefore, to simplify everything, we have chosen five reliable and bee-friendly products and give them a comprehensive assessment for your consideration.

Buying Guide – Criteria Of The Best Fuel For Bee Smoker

Quality smoker fuel can be lit easily, affordable, calms the bees effectively, burns long enough, and does not harm the bees or the beekeepers.

Let’s break it down into details!

Decent Materials

The material is everything underlying the best fuel for bee hive smoker. They can be made of cotton, softwood, pellets, pine needles, and so forth. Each has different pros and cons when used.

• Pine Needles

Pine needles, or pine straws, are the best materials for smoker fuel as they smell light, give cool smoke, and are beginner-friendly. It is advisable to add some rolled paper onto the heap for quicker combustion.

• Burlap

Burlap is also well-known as a reliable and accessible smoker fuel. Moreover, it is highly combustible at low heat, allowing the smoker to generate consistent smoldering throughout the process.

• Pinewood Shaving

This material is also another option to consider, which beekeepers can find at certain local pet stores. However, even though it burns well, it tends to reach an overly hot point that damages the bees instead of calming them. Hence, it would be best if you only used wood shavings to repel wasps.

• Cotton Cut-Offs

Cotton cut-offs are not so good, either. Even though they are cheap, they require too much heat to burn on their own, not to mention you may accidentally burn yourself while doing the job.

• Compressed Wood Pellets

These pellets are highly recommended as bee smoker fuel. However, they are slightly challenging to light up, which can discourage many beginners. Thus, we don’t recommend them if you are new to beekeeping.

• Blue denim jeans

Denim jeans, fabricated of absolute cotton, perform great in keeping long, consistent, and gentle smoke. We strongly recommend this material as long as it is 100% pure cotton.

• Herb

This natural material might be another viable option as it emits a nice smell and does no harm to bee health.

Materials To Avoid

Tobacco, which is something that bees find much interest in, can be extremely harmful and even deadly to them.

Petroleum, such as kerosene or gasoline, is overly strong for bee sedation. It can even cause uncontrollable arson. So please steer clear of it!

Certain plants are highly toxic to bees. Thus, we suggest that you use dry hay or grass only.

Finally, you should give blue jeans with chemical components a miss. They can irritate the bee colony.

In-Depth Review Of  The Best Fuel For Bee Smoker 

Here comes our list of the best fuel for a bee smoker.

Midwest Smoker Fuel For Bees: Best Overall

This is the first and the best bee smoker fuel UK that we are gladly presenting to you.

Coming from the brand Midwest Gloves – which has made quite a name for itself with quality workwear and garden gears, the Midwest smoker fuel performs extremely well in sedating the bees.

Also, the product is made of 100% cotton fiber, making itself an unequaled head start. By inserting parts of the cotton into the smoker, you can instantly sense a soft smell surrounding the hive, calming the bees. That’s when to start your work.

For maximum results, you can add some woody materials together with the cotton mix. Another aspect that we consider a plus in this product is its harmless effects on both the bees and the users, unlike tobacco’s deadly smells.

The only downside is its slightly high price. But we suppose you get what you pay for, right?

Pros

• Can be easily lit with lighters or matches.
• Long burning time.
• Works amazingly to calm bees.
• Does not harm bees.
• Suitable for both normal and commercial purposes.

Cons

• A bit expensive.

Verdict: If you are looking for a robust smoker fuel, look no further. The Midwest Gloves smoker fuel for bees can match every requirement of yours, from its material to excellent performance.

Western Bee Supplies Wood Pellets: Best Ignition

This product has recently sparked a lot of divisive reviews. But as always, we choose to sit on the fence and express our objective opinion.

It comprises compressed wood pellets, yet outcompeting the last one in the ability to be lit up effortlessly. That is thanks to the cotton balls that the manufacturer has included in the package.

With these alcohol-soaked fire starters, you can ignite the smoker fuel easily. First, drop the cotton in the smoker, then snuggle the fuel nicely on top, and you are completely prepared to do your job.

When you have finished using the sparks, add some dry green grass onto the fuel to cool it down and prevent unnecessary fire from spreading.

Yet again, an inherent shortcoming of small pellets is the fact that they cannot burn for a desired amount of time. Not to mention, they cost comparatively higher than other equivalents on the market.

Pros

• Easy to light up.
• Generates consistent smoke.
• Clean burning.
• Can calm the bees effectively.
• Bee-friendly.
• Environmentally friendly.

Cons

• A bit expensive.
• Does not last long.

Verdict: If you are against hassles like us, hesitate no more. Take your pick now! This product will save you a ton of time, fuel, and trouble throughout the process.

GooDay Medicinal Herb Smoke Fuel: Best Aroma

As its name implies, this product carries a light scent into the bees’ senses, paralyzing such danger agents for a while. We can even say that you will enjoy the hive inspecting/ extracting process while using this pick.

Another plus point of scented pellets is their doubled effects in repelling pests, thus saving you another amount of money. Moreover, upon smoking, the product gives off a nice, clean burn without any fillers to wipe off after that.

The only turnoff is, you can guess, that they are way too small. Each unit is just twice as big as a cigarette butt. Thus, you may need to use a dozen pellets for every working session.

Pros

• Gives off pleasant smells.
• Composed of harmless medicinal herbs.
• Can repel invading pests.
• No-risk guarantee from the manufacturer.

Cons

• Quite small.
• Hard to light.

Verdict: For those sensitive to the smell of smoke, this aromatic Gooday fuel is specifically catered to their needs.

BeeCastle Hive Smoker Pellets: Best Budget

Speaking of affordability, none of any other smoker fuels can surpass this BeeCastle. But, to be clear, we do not necessarily equate a cheap price with poor quality.

The total burning duration of the BeeCastle is about fifteen to twenty minutes, which is highly facilitating for you to do the harvesting job. Also, the fuel is in the form of Chinese medicinal herbs, which can gently coax the bees and cause you no discomfort during the process.

However, as the pellets are small, the smokescreen will not be thick enough for deeper inspections. Thus, they are not suitable if you aim to check the hives closely for larvae and eggs or if you have more than one hive.

And there is another problem with starting the fuel. You may need to use extra kindling before getting started.

Pros

• Highly affordable.
• Produces a clean smoke.
• Lasts for 20 minutes.
• Light smell.

Cons

• The pellets can be bigger.
• A bit hard to light up.

Verdict: If you take beekeeping as a mere pastime or do not want to invest too much into it, this smoker fuel should be your top choice.

Mann Lake HD554 KwikStart Smoker: Best Smoke

This product is a set of compact pellets, allowing you to carry them around with convenience. Also, the full pack consists of 100 pellets, which can be saved for multiple uses.

To start, you need to use some twigs or woods along with burlaps to kindle the pellets. It will take a bit of effort but trust us, but it is eventually worth it. Then, you’ll notice a thick, cool layer of smoke gently bursting out into the air.

Yet, a flaw of the Mann Lake KwikStart pellets is they only last about 15 minutes. Therefore, you can only do simple tasks, for example, moving the hives onto frames, changing hive components, or quick inspections with that amount of time.

Pros

• Gives off a nice, thick, and clean smoke.
• Small and convenient.
• Suitable to use on more than one hive.
• Affordable.

Cons

• Burn quite hot.
• Cannot work alone.

Verdict: We do not recommend the product if your point is to scrutinize the beehives. You may not have enough time to prepare before the bees get riled up again. But for simple, daily check-ups, the KwikStart is a nice pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are a newbie, follow up on this session and find out the exact answer to common misconceptions.

How Often Should I Use Smoker Fuel For Bee Hive Inspections?

We don’t have the exact answer to this question. But remember three key points

• Smoke in any form is not good for your health as well as the bees’.
• Smoke can affect the quality of the beeswax.
• Smoke can make the bees more aggressive.

Hence, smoking should only be done whenever necessary. Maybe it’s when you recognize foreign intrusion into the hives, when you suspect the queen bee is missing, or when there is any sign of infestation.

How Do I Light A Smoker?

Here is our simplified instruction:

• Start by emptying the smoker. Then, light a crumpled piece of paper and toss it into the firebox, and pump the bellows for a while.
• Next up, add some combustible fuel such as dried grass or needles and keep pumping the bellows.
• Remember to keep the smoker vertical all the time, whether it is on the ground or in your hand. Gradually add more fuel if necessary.

How Can I Maintain Smoker Fuel For Perennial Uses?

It’s simple. Keep the fuel inside animal food bags or cardboard, and then store it in a dry place, most ideally in your car trunk.

How Can I Use Smoker Fuel For Hive Inspections Safely?

Bees are notoriously known for their terrible stings, which can leave instant marks on your body. However, in the name of hard-working bees, we must assert that they are selectively aggressive, meaning they only attack when they perceive something as imminent danger.

Thus, understanding bee behaviors and their pet peeves can allow you to smoke the beehives safely. 

There are three major tips for your safe manipulation.

They Hate Dark, Hot Colors

Long, long ago, in the wilderness, honey was a fat reward that many animals desired. Among them were bears, birds, skunks, or mice. And they had one thing in common, which was the dark color inside bees’ vision.

Thus, bees almost instantly associated dark colors with predators and would accordingly attack anything dark. They even adopted this aversion into their evolutionary process.

Since then, we humans have learned the hard way that we should only wear white suits when approaching them.

Tobacco Is Deadly To Bees 

Certain components in tobacco are toxic to bees when inhaled in the form of smoke. Therefore, they can sometimes be aggressive when exposed to tobacco smoke. Thus, do not resort to tobacco as smoker fuel in any way. They can backfire on you.

Even better, we highly recommend materials from wood or herb extracts. These will emit light, pleasant fragrance throughout your working process.

Keep The Smoke Constant

Trust us. You won’t want to be caught up in a situation where the bees become cranky again while you are too focused on your hive inspection. And it is because the smoke has dimmed out completely before you even realize it.

Thus, prepare your sparks and fuel carefully before any possible problems can happen.

Conclusion 

After thorough consideration, we hope you can finally pick out the best fuel for bee smokers. If you’re still confused about which one to go for, consider our top picks: Midwest Supply Bee Smoker Fuel and BeeCastle Bee Hive Smoker Pellets.

The former wins over us for its robust performance: easy lighting, long burning duration, and gentleness to bee health. Meanwhile, the latter is highly prized for its affordable price, clean smoke, and light smell.

But if your budget is not restricted, we suggest that you go for either of the two products. They promise to make your beekeeping experience more safe and enjoyable. Good luck!

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How To Get Rid Of Hive Beetles Within Your Bee Hive?

Nobody wants beetles in their home, not even your honey bees. A hive beetle infestation can be devastating to your colony. It is critical to keep your colony healthy so that it can fend off these and other pests or diseases that endanger the hive. So, how to get rid of hive beetles in a beehive​?

What are small hive beetles?

The small hive beetle is a beekeeping pest native to Sub-Saharan Africa. In a beehive, the little hive bug can be highly destructive. It wreaks havoc on combs, pollen, stored honey, and bee larvae. Its larvae crawl into the comb, consuming and defecating on the honey. As a result, the honey ferments and discolors.

Small hive beetles are dark brown or black in hue as adults. They are approximately 5 mm long and can live for up to 6 months. Small hive beetles can have 4 to 5 generations in your beehive during the warmer seasons.

What are large hive beetles?

Large hive beetles are scarab beetles that are mostly found in Africa. They are honeybee brood pests. The adult giant hive beetle measures 20-23 mm in length. It features a gleaming black body. Large hive beetles do not reproduce in honeybee colony beehives. This is in contrast to little hive beetles, whose eggs are placed in the beehive and whose larvae devour honey and pollen in the beehive.

Large hive insect damage in a beehive is produced by adult beetles feeding on honeybee broods. When adults are in a beehive, they have a great predilection for the brood. This ravenous feeding activity leads to the rapid loss of combs in the beehive and the rapid extinction of your honeybee colony.

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What are the effects of hive beetles on the beehive?

Hive beetles generate a variety of issues in a beehive. They make the beehive not very conducive for your honeybee colony.

• They eat your bee brood

Hive beetles will colonize your hives and make themselves at home. They will begin laying eggs almost immediately.

These pests quickly take over the hive, and once they do, they, of course, require food to survive. It can also weaken your beehive as a whole, prompting the queen to leave. She may take the remainder of the bees with her, resulting in a swarm and the loss of your bees for good.

• Honey destruction

Unfortunately, hive beetles enjoy honey as much as we do. Honeycomb is a favorite food of both adult and larval hive beetles. In contrast to other bee pests such as wax moths, hive beetles do not completely destroy the honey. They do, however, consume all the honey, depriving the bees of their food source.

Furthermore, hive beetles are reported to defecate inside the hive. This causes the honey to ferment, rendering it unsuitable for harvesting. It also gives it an unpleasant odor.

• Stresses the hive

When you add a hive beetle infestation to the mix, your bees will become extremely anxious. When a hive is agitated, it naturally weakens as its supplies are depleted. A hive beetle infestation can lead to the hive’s entire collapse. You must do everything possible to safeguard your bees from these intruders.

How to get rid of small hive beetles?

Small hive beetle treatments are divided into two categories: those used inside the hive and those used outdoors. Because honeybees and hive beetles are both insects, most toxins that affect hive beetles can also impact them. As a result, beekeepers who use chemical treatments to control small hive beetles must be extremely cautious in following application guidelines.

• Coumaphos small hive beetle killer

It is the most effective drug available for beekeepers to control the small beetles inside the hive. You should not use it when you are harvesting honey from the beehive. Beekeepers should remove honeycombs from the hive for the 42-45 days required to successfully apply this method. Beekeepers are advised not to use the treatment more than twice in the same beehive in the same year.

• Permethrin

Before using this solution, make sure there is no vegetation on the ground. This permits the treatment to come into direct touch with the soil and permeate into it. In addition, instead of a sprayer, use a sprinkler to apply the chemical. It enables you to apply permethrin without fear of the chemical contacting the hive surface and injuring the bees. Apply these treatments in the evening, after the bees have settled down for the night.

• Diatomaceous Earth

This is also the method used to prevent small bugs. You should fully dust the items within an 8-10 foot radius around each hive prior to application. Watering the ground after dusting to allow the water to seep into the soil. You can also plan to dust the ground just before it rains. Diatomaceous earth kills the larvae and pupae of ground-dwelling beetles.

How to get rid of small hive beetle larvae?

Small hive beetle larvae like to congregate on beehive frames and in corners within the beehive. They also gravitate toward light as they age. This is because they desire to leave the beehive and pupate on the ground.

Beekeepers employ these two traits to eradicate little hive beetle larvae. It enables you to save beehive frames and reuse them in the beehive.

• Using light

A light source near the floor or entrance of your beehive draws a small hive beetle. The larvae are then swept up around the light and drowned in water laced with soap.

• Using chickens

Allowing your hens to nibble around your beehives is an excellent technique to keep little hive bug larvae at bay if you already have them.

Bees are usually not a concern for chickens. Chickens just like pecking and eating the larvae they find on the ground. They may also dig up the soil, exposing the larvae to sunlight, which might cause them to dry up.

• Freezing frames

Third, remove the infested frames from your beehives and freeze them. The recommended freezing time for small hive beetle larvae removal is four days. This kills all the larvae in the frames, and you can then wash them away.

Natural way to get rid of hive beetles.

Controlling small hive beetles is possible using organic treatments. These include everything from traps to home-made mixes. Essential oils and vegetable oil are used in small hive beetle control mixes. Mineral oil is used to kill beetles in traps.

Diatomaceous Earth is another organic therapy for hive bugs. Hydrated lime replaces the vegetable oils used in traps in an natural treatment for hive beetles. Because, the kill ratio of lime is higher than that of oil. It also spreads uniformly, unlike oil, which may collect in the lower areas of traps and leave other areas dry.

In addition to direct control strategies, beekeepers should include preventive measures in their apiary pest management plans. These include cleaning the beehive, ensuring that all beehive parts are in good working order, and exposing the beehives to sunshine. You can give shade to your beehives during the hottest part of the day.

Conclusion

Honeybee pests are harmful and ultimately result in beekeeping loss. Controlling these pests, such as hive beetles, necessitates good pest control measures by beekeepers.

Preventing pests is preferable to coping with their impact and counteracting their impact on honeybee colonies. Use these precise strategies for getting rid of hive beetles to spare your bees from a hive beetle infestation and its severe consequences.