Constructing Effective Swarm Traps: A Global Beekeeper's Guide

Swarming is a natural process for honeybees, a method of colony reproduction where a portion of the bees leaves the original hive to establish a new colony. While it's a sign of a healthy colony, swarming can be problematic for beekeepers aiming to maintain their existing apiary and honey production. Fortunately, beekeepers can utilize swarm traps to capture these swarms, providing a controlled environment and preventing the loss of bees. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of swarm trap construction and deployment, applicable to beekeepers across the globe.

Understanding Swarming Behavior

Before constructing a swarm trap, it's crucial to understand why bees swarm. Swarming is typically triggered by overcrowding, queen age or health, or a lack of resources within the hive. Understanding these factors allows beekeepers to anticipate swarming season, which varies depending on climate and location. In temperate regions, swarming typically occurs in spring and early summer, while in warmer climates, it may happen multiple times throughout the year. Recognizing the signs of impending swarming, such as the presence of swarm cells (queen cells along the bottom or sides of the frame) and a decrease in worker activity, is crucial for effective swarm trapping.

Essential Swarm Trap Characteristics

A successful swarm trap possesses several key characteristics:

Volume: The ideal volume is generally between 30-40 liters (approximately 8-10 gallons). This size provides sufficient space for a swarm to establish itself without feeling overcrowded. Smaller traps may deter larger swarms, while larger traps may be less appealing.
Entrance Size: A small entrance, around 12-15 square centimeters (2-2.5 square inches), is sufficient. A larger entrance can make the trap more vulnerable to predators and less appealing to scouting bees.
Darkness: Bees prefer dark, enclosed spaces. The interior of the trap should be relatively dark to mimic a natural cavity.
Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is essential to prevent condensation and mold growth, which can make the trap uninhabitable. Small ventilation holes, covered with screen mesh, should be placed near the top of the trap.
Accessibility: The trap should be easily accessible for inspection and removal of the captured swarm. A removable lid or side panel simplifies this process.
Placement: The location of the swarm trap is critical for success. Traps should be placed in sheltered locations, away from direct sunlight and strong winds, ideally facing southeast. They should be elevated off the ground, at least 3 meters (10 feet), to mimic the height of natural tree cavities.

Materials for Swarm Trap Construction

Swarm traps can be constructed from various materials, depending on availability and budget. Common options include:

Plywood: Plywood is a durable and readily available material. Use exterior-grade plywood for weather resistance.
OSB (Oriented Strand Board): OSB is a cheaper alternative to plywood, but it's less resistant to moisture. If using OSB, ensure it's adequately sealed with paint or varnish.
Cardboard: Cardboard boxes can be used for temporary swarm traps, but they are not as durable as wood. Ensure the cardboard is thick and sturdy, and protect it from rain.
Plastic: Plastic containers, such as large storage bins, can be converted into swarm traps. Ensure the plastic is food-grade and opaque.
Used Beehives: An old, unusable beehive with a few frames makes an excellent swarm trap.

In addition to the main material, you'll also need:

Screws or Nails: For assembling the trap.
Wood Glue: For added strength and weather resistance.
Paint or Varnish: To protect the exterior of the trap from the elements. Use a light-colored paint to reflect sunlight and prevent overheating.
Screen Mesh: For covering ventilation holes.
Frames: Old brood frames are the most attractive to swarms, as they contain the scent of beeswax and propolis. Empty frames can also be used, or frames with foundation.
Swarm Lure: A swarm lure, such as lemongrass oil or commercially available swarm attractants, can significantly increase the chances of attracting a swarm.

Step-by-Step Swarm Trap Construction

Here's a step-by-step guide to constructing a basic plywood swarm trap:

Cut the Plywood: Cut the plywood into the following dimensions (adjust as needed based on your desired trap volume):
- Top: 30cm x 30cm (12" x 12")
- Bottom: 30cm x 30cm (12" x 12")
- Sides (2): 30cm x 40cm (12" x 16")
- Front: 30cm x 40cm (12" x 16")
- Back: 30cm x 40cm (12" x 16")
Assemble the Box: Use wood glue and screws or nails to assemble the box. Ensure the seams are tight and the box is square.
Drill the Entrance: Drill a hole in the front of the box, approximately 5cm (2") in diameter.
Add Ventilation Holes: Drill several small holes (approximately 1cm or 0.4") near the top of the box on the sides and back. Cover the holes with screen mesh to prevent other insects from entering.
Create a Frame Support: Attach wooden cleats to the inside of the box to support the frames. Ensure the cleats are level and properly spaced to accommodate the frames.
Paint or Varnish the Exterior: Paint or varnish the exterior of the box to protect it from the elements. Use a light-colored paint to reflect sunlight.
Add Frames and Swarm Lure: Place several old brood frames inside the trap. If using a swarm lure, apply it to a cotton ball or small piece of fabric and place it inside the trap.
Attach a Lid: Construct a lid that fits snugly on top of the box. The lid should be easily removable for inspection and swarm removal. Secure the lid with screws or latches.

Alternative Swarm Trap Designs

While the basic plywood box is a common design, there are many variations. Some beekeepers prefer to use long, narrow traps that mimic hollow logs, while others use repurposed containers, such as 5-gallon buckets or plastic storage bins. The key is to maintain the essential characteristics of a successful swarm trap: appropriate volume, small entrance, darkness, and ventilation.

Example: The Tanzanian Top-Bar Hive Swarm Trap: In some regions, such as Tanzania, beekeepers adapt their local beehive designs for swarm trapping. A small, portable top-bar hive, baited with beeswax and propolis, can be highly effective in attracting swarms familiar with this type of hive. This demonstrates how swarm trap design can be tailored to local bee populations and beekeeping practices.

Deploying Swarm Traps Effectively

Proper placement is crucial for attracting swarms. Consider the following factors:

Height: Elevate the trap at least 3 meters (10 feet) off the ground. Swarms tend to prefer locations that are high and secluded.
Location: Place the trap in a sheltered location, away from direct sunlight and strong winds. Wooded areas or the edge of a field are often good choices.
Orientation: Face the entrance of the trap southeast. This orientation allows the trap to receive morning sunlight, which can attract scouting bees.
Proximity to Existing Hives: Place the trap within a reasonable distance of your existing hives, but not too close. A distance of 50-100 meters (160-330 feet) is generally recommended.
Accessibility: Ensure the trap is easily accessible for inspection and removal of the captured swarm.

Swarm Lures and Attractants

Swarm lures can significantly increase the chances of attracting a swarm. Several options are available:

Lemongrass Oil: Lemongrass oil contains citral, a chemical compound that mimics the scent of Nasonov pheromone, a pheromone released by bees to attract other bees to a location. Dilute lemongrass oil with water or alcohol and apply a few drops to a cotton ball or small piece of fabric inside the trap.
Commercially Available Swarm Attractants: Several commercially available swarm attractants are available, containing a blend of pheromones and other attractants. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.
Old Brood Comb: Old brood comb contains the scent of beeswax and propolis, which is highly attractive to bees. Placing a few old brood frames inside the trap can significantly increase its attractiveness.
Propolis: Propolis is a resinous substance collected by bees from trees and used to seal cracks and crevices in the hive. Placing a small amount of propolis inside the trap can also be attractive to swarms.

Monitoring and Managing Swarm Traps

Regularly monitor your swarm traps, especially during swarming season. Check the traps every 1-2 weeks to see if they have been occupied. Look for signs of bee activity, such as bees entering and exiting the trap. If you find a swarm in the trap, take the following steps:

Wait Until Dusk: Wait until dusk when all the bees have returned to the trap.
Close the Entrance: Close the entrance to the trap to prevent the bees from escaping. You can use a piece of screen mesh or a foam plug.
Move the Trap: Carefully move the trap to your apiary. Place the trap in the location where you want to establish the new colony.
Transfer the Swarm: The next morning, open the entrance to the trap. The bees will gradually leave the trap and enter their new hive. Alternatively, you can transfer the frames from the swarm trap directly into a standard beehive.
Monitor the Colony: Monitor the new colony to ensure it is thriving. Provide the colony with sugar syrup or pollen patties if needed.

Troubleshooting Swarm Trap Failures

Even with the best preparations, swarm traps may not always be successful. Common reasons for failure include:

Poor Location: The trap is not located in a suitable location. Try moving the trap to a different location.
Unattractive Trap: The trap is not appealing to swarms. Try adding a swarm lure or old brood comb.
Presence of Predators: Predators, such as ants or small hive beetles, are deterring swarms. Take steps to control predators around the trap.
Competing Swarm Traps: There are too many swarm traps in the area. Reduce the number of traps or move them further apart.

Legal Considerations

Before deploying swarm traps, be aware of any local regulations or ordinances regarding beekeeping and swarm trapping. In some areas, permits may be required. Always respect the property rights of others and obtain permission before placing swarm traps on private land.

Example: European Regulations: In the European Union, beekeepers must adhere to specific regulations regarding bee health and disease control. Ensure your swarm trapping practices comply with these regulations to prevent the spread of bee diseases.

Conclusion

Constructing and deploying effective swarm traps is a valuable skill for beekeepers worldwide. By understanding swarming behavior, building traps with the essential characteristics, and placing them strategically, beekeepers can capture swarms, expand their apiaries, and contribute to the health and well-being of bee populations. Remember to adapt your practices to your local environment and regulations, and continuously learn and refine your swarm trapping techniques.