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 without, high honey production and curing rates equal to 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!

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.

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)!