To use a Round, Press In Cage, you must first locate the queen on a frame containing drawn comb. Place the circular cage directly over the queen and gently push the prongs into the wax until she is securely immobilized against the comb surface. Once she positions herself with her thorax exposed through one of the cage's gaps, apply the mark and remove the cage immediately.
This method, often called a "crown of thorns," allows you to mark the queen without ever physically handling her or removing her from the frame, significantly reducing the risk of accidental injury.
The Mechanics of Immobilization
Selecting the Right Surface
You cannot use this tool effectively on wood or bare plastic foundation. You must locate the queen on drawn comb.
The prongs of the cage require the depth and texture of the beeswax to sink into. This anchors the cage and creates a safe, temporary ceiling over the queen.
Securing the Cage
Once the cage is placed over the queen, apply gentle, even pressure.
Push the prongs deep enough into the comb to prevent the queen from crawling out underneath the rim. However, be careful not to press so deep that you restrict her movement painfully or damage her legs.
Positioning for the Mark
The cage features a mesh or barred top with gaps. You must wait for the queen to pause with her back (thorax) centered in one of these gaps.
This alignment provides the necessary access to apply the paint or marker directly to her thorax without painting the cage itself or missing the target.
Understanding the Trade-offs
The Benefit of "On-Frame" Marking
The primary advantage of the Press In Cage is that it is an on-frame method.
Unlike the "plunger" tube or manual handling methods, you do not need to pick the queen up. This makes it an excellent choice for beekeepers uncomfortable with grasping a queen between their thumb and forefinger.
Limitations and Risks
This tool is strictly intended for temporary use, typically lasting only a couple of minutes.
It is not designed to transport or bank a queen. Furthermore, because you are pressing metal into wax, there is a slight risk of injuring the queen if you push too fast or if she is climbing over a high spot in the comb when you apply pressure.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
While the Press In Cage is effective, choosing between it and a handheld plunger tube depends on your comfort level with handling insects.
- If your primary focus is minimizing direct contact: Choose the Press In Cage to keep the queen on the comb and avoid the risks of picking her up manually.
- If your primary focus is off-frame inspection: Choose a Queen Marking Tube (Plunger), which allows you to move the queen away from the hive for closer observation before marking.
Mastering the gentle application of the Press In Cage provides a safe, low-stress method for maintaining a marked and manageable queen.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Round Press In Cage (Crown of Thorns) |
|---|---|
| Application | On-frame marking on drawn comb |
| Main Advantage | No physical contact with queen needed |
| Prong Surface | Designed for beeswax/drawn comb |
| Safety Level | High (reduces risk of dropping queen) |
| Best For | Commercial apiaries & beginners alike |
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