How should the Bee Escape Board be placed under the honey supers? A Beekeeper's Guide

The Bee Escape Board is a simple yet effective tool for beekeepers to separate bees from honey supers without causing harm or stress to the colony. Proper placement and timing are crucial for its effectiveness. The board should be positioned under the honey supers with the triangle side facing downward, allowing bees to exit but not re-enter. Leaving it in place for several hours or overnight ensures most bees have vacated the supers, making honey extraction easier and safer for both the beekeeper and the bees.

Key Points Explained:

1. Correct Orientation of the Bee Escape Board

   • The board must be placed with the triangle side facing downward. This orientation is essential because:
     • The triangular openings act as one-way exits for bees, allowing them to move downward out of the honey supers but preventing them from returning.
     • Incorrect placement (triangle side up) would render the board ineffective, as bees could easily re-enter the supers.

2. Positioning Under the Honey Supers

   • The board should be installed directly beneath the honey supers you intend to harvest. This ensures:
     • Bees in the supers are directed downward into the brood chamber or lower hive boxes.
     • The queen and brood remain undisturbed in the lower parts of the hive.

3. Duration of Placement

   • Leave the board in place for several hours or overnight. This timeframe is critical because:
     • Bees naturally move downward during cooler evening hours, increasing the efficiency of the escape process.
     • Rushing the process (e.g., removing the board too soon) may leave many bees still in the supers, complicating honey extraction.

4. Passive and Non-Invasive Method

   • Unlike other methods (e.g., bee brushes or blowers), the escape board:
     • Minimizes stress and harm to bees.
     • Reduces the risk of agitation, which can lead to defensive behavior.

5. Post-Placement Check

   • Before removing the supers, briefly inspect to ensure most bees have exited. If many remain, consider:
     • Extending the duration slightly.
     • Verifying the board’s orientation is correct.

By following these steps, beekeepers can efficiently and humanely prepare honey supers for harvest while maintaining colony health. This method aligns with sustainable beekeeping practices, prioritizing the well-being of the bees and the quality of the honey.

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