MINI ProtectaBEE™ 8-frame Langstroth - All-In-One Adjustable Hive Entrance - PRE-ORDER FOR SPRING 2024
AN UPDATE with the 8-frame Langstroth Mini ProtectaBEE®. We have had unexpected delays in production (sorry, we are perfectionists!), and with shipping times being quite long, we now anticipate them arriving in Early Spring 2024.
ProtectaBEE® simplifies beekeeping with an adjustable entrance that keeps out wasps, hornets, mice, robbing bees, skunks, and other predators.
Probiotics and other powders can be added to the "IN" drawer, reducing waste and providing accurate dosing.
Simplifying beekeeping, you don't need to open the hive to add powders like probiotics to the hive.
In rainy locations, hot areas, or where overhead predators are an issue the extra-large protected landing board allows for extra fanning.
Are small hive beetles an issue? You can add bait to the beetle drawer to monitor for the presence of small hive beetle.
The optional SwarmStopper, Vent, and Vented Cone Inserts can be purchased separately! Adding even MORE functionality to this all-in-one entrance!
Fits most standard Langstroth 8-frame hives. If your bottom board is too small, simply add a small notch on either side to slide in the edges of the ProtectaBEE™.
VIDEOS
FAQs
Can the bees cool the hive when it's hot?
We tested over two years and found less bearding on our hives with ProtectaBEE™ than hives without the ProtectaBEE™. Honey production and curing rates were improved compared to those hives without the ProtectaBEE™. Inside is an extra-large landing board, and there is still air moving in and out.
Additionally, you can always remove the inserts, and we recommend doing that when you do not have any issues with robbers to maximize bee traffic!
We have also just added a new optional vented cone insert!
Is plastic safe for bees?
Yes! Beehives for years have had plastic frames, plastic queen excluders, plastic feeders, and there are even full plastic hives! The bees don't mind!
Why plastic?
Most hives are fully exposed to all the weather elements. Over time wood warps and would not provide the security needed to keep out predators. We have sourced a bee-friendly plastic that will last several years outside without becoming brittle. Our inserts are also reinforced to prevent warping.
Can the queen bee leave the colony with the ProtectaBEE™ cones installed?
The cones are big enough to let drones (boy bees) enter and exit the hive, so the queen can also enter and exit. This is important, especially if a virgin queen needs to mate. The ProtectaBEE™ will not prevent swarming.
Will the ProtectaBEE™ work with a Flow™ hive? Yes, but only if you remove the landing board that comes with the Flow™ hive. Otherwise, there is not enough bee space.
Is there even more that I can do with the ProtectaBEE™?
Since the ProtectaBEE™ is a plug & play system, we can create all sorts of inserts and additions. We have tested putting pollen patties and fondant into the ProtectaBEE™ behind a solid insert and found that works well to increase hive numbers in the Spring. We also have an insert to block swarms temporarily. We also are developing a feeder that can be used with the ProtectaBEE™. And, of course, we will be testing to see if we can keep out small hive beetles (but they can be monitored with the monitoring drawer)!
