How to Move Honeybees

Moving honeybees does not have to be a dangerous task.

The thought of moving a beehive can be overwhelming and slightly scary, but moving a beehive does not have to be a dangerous task if you plan ahead carefully and use the right equipment. It's a fact that bees sting, but protecting yourself and the hive simply requires the right gear and tools for the job. There are many benefits to beekeeping. You get fresh honey, and the joy of cultivating a bee colony makes the process worthwhile.

Things You'll Need

• Beekeeper's veil
• Protective beekeeper's suit
• Screened hive cover
• Duct tape
• Nylon straps
• Metal hive carrier (optional)

Instructions

1. Put on the protective beekeeper's suit and beekeeper's veil. Move the bees at night after they have stopped being active for the day. Bees are also easier to move during colder months because they are less active.

2. Place the screened hive cover over the entrance to the hive. Duct tape any remaining holes or openings where the bees could escape from the hive.

3. Load the beehive onto the back of a pickup truck or carry it to its new location with the aid of another person. If you do not have help, consider purchasing a metal hive carrier to make the job easier. Place the hive into the carrier and take it to the new location.

4. Secure the beehive using nylon straps if using a truck. Make sure that the hive cannot tip over. Move it to a new location.

5. Remove the hive from the carrier or the truck and allow the bees to de-stress for about 1 hour. Remove the screened cover and duct tape from the beehive.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not have a screened cover for your hive, you can make one out of an old window screen. Simply fold the screen over the opening of the hive and duct tape around the edges to secure it.

References

• Honey Bees and Beekeeping:
• San Francisco Bee Keepers Association: Moving Hives