DIY Swarm Traps

If you’ve ever wondered about a swarm trap design or how to make a swarm trap, here is a simple DIY Swarm Trap.

Advantages

It takes less than 10 minutes to prepare. 

Actually less if you make more than 1 at a time.

Works with either corrugated plastic or wooded Nucs.

Swarm Trap Materials Needed

In this case I’ve used just:

• A piece of recycled wood
• 2 small nails
• 3 screws and washers
• 1 large nail

Here’s the process:

• Cut the wood to the right length – I’ve found 16 inches to be ideal
• I’m using wood that is about 6 inches wide and 1 inch thick, but you can use almost anything, including 2×4’s.
• Cut a hole in the wood – I’ve used a drill press to put a  1.5” hole in the wood about 1.5” inches from the top.
• Place the wood underneath.
• I use 2 small nails to keep it in place
• Then fasten the 3 screws with washers in place

Here’s what the finished product looks like.

FAQ

What is the success rate of a swarm trap?

• A good swarm trap is really all you need to get started in beekeeping. A good success rate is about 50%, but some beekeepers report an 80% success rate with catching swarms.

How long should you leave a swarm in a swarm trap?

• Many experienced beekeepers advise leaving the swarm in the trap for about a week. It might be tempting, but it’s best not to disturb a recently-caught swarm. The bees may leave if  you bother or agitate them.

What months do bees swarm?

• April and May are the two months when most swarming activity takes place, although I’ve caught swarms as early as February, here in Georgia.

Will bees swarm in the rain?

• Typically not. Bees prefer sunny days to swarm.

When do bees typically swarm?

• Most times, honey bees will swarm in the afternoon.