Queen Rearing

Large Queen Introduction Cage

It is often said there is no 100% safe way to introduce a new queen to a colony but this unique cage is probably as close to 100% safe as any system can be.  The large cage (130mm * 150mm) is used with a frame of sealed brood which needs to be brushed or shaken free of bees.  The cage is then pressed onto the sealed brood and the new queen introduced into the cage which is sealed with the cap.  The queen is then on her own inside the cage with the sealed brood.  As the young bees emerge they will immediately accept the queen as they know no other.  After a few days the cap can be removed, allowing the queen to escape quietly on her own or the cage can be removed completely.  The timing will depend on the age of the sealed brood as the queen must not be released until there are plenty of young bees inside the cage with the queen.  The cage also has a candy compartment which can be sealed with a firm candy mix but this should only be used if you know the sealed brood will emerge before the bees eat through the candy.  It most cases we recommend releasing the queen manually although you may find the bees chew their way under the cage to release according to their own timetable!

Always ensure there is a bee-space gap between the cage and the opposite frame to ensure the bees can get to the cage to feed the queen and begin to become accustomed to her. 

The cage comes with a sealing cap and 4 legs which push into the corners of the cage.  These are attached to cage (shown at the top of the image on the left) when delivered and should be removed together with the supporting sprue before using the cage.

When using plastic foundation the legs may need to be shortened in order to achieve a good seal at the junction between the cage and the comb.  If necessary wrap elastic around the frame or use a couple of large elastic bands to hold the cage securely in place.

Price: £2.05 inc. VAT
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