The "no-shake" method is a low-impact technique for introducing package bees to a hive without the chaos of dumping or shaking them. The specific procedure involves removing five frames to create a void, securing the queen separately, and placing the opened shipping package directly inside the hive body to allow bees to exit naturally.
The "no-shake" method prioritizes a calm transition by placing the entire package inside the hive, significantly reducing the number of airborne bees and minimizing stress on the colony during installation.
Preparing the Hive Configuration
Creating the Necessary Void
To accommodate the physical size of the shipping package, you must first modify the hive's internal arrangement. Temporarily remove five frames from the hive body.
This creates a large open space specifically designed to hold the package cage later in the process.
Securing the Queen
Before dealing with the worker bees, attend to the queen cage. Secure the queen cage between frames two and three.
It is critical that the cage is positioned with the screen side facing up. This orientation ensures proper airflow and allows worker bees to interact with the queen effectively.
The Installation Process
Settling the Colony
Before opening the package, gently tap the package on the ground or a solid surface.
This action causes the cluster of bees to fall to the bottom of the cage, preventing them from flying out immediately when the lid is removed.
Inserting the Package
Once the lid is removed, place the entire shipping cage into the open space you created within the hive body.
Do not shake the bees out. Simply set the cage in the void next to the frames holding the queen, put the hive cover back on, and leave them undisturbed.
The Follow-Up Protocol
The Waiting Period
Allow the hive to settle for three days. During this time, the bees will naturally migrate out of the shipping package and onto the frames surrounding the queen.
Finalizing the Setup
After the three-day period, return to the hive to complete the installation. First, verify that the queen has been released from her cage.
Once confirmed, remove the empty shipping package from the hive body and reinstall the five frames that were originally removed.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Equipment Management
This method requires a two-step process regarding hive components. Unlike direct release methods where all frames are installed immediately, you must store five frames safely for three days.
Return Trip Necessity
You cannot complete the installation in a single visit. You are obligated to return in exactly three days to remove the box and replace the frames, or the bees may begin building comb in the empty space.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
To determine if the "no-shake" method aligns with your beekeeping objectives, consider the following:
- If your primary focus is minimizing agitation: This method is ideal as it prevents clouds of airborne bees and reduces the likelihood of stinging during installation.
- If your primary focus is single-trip efficiency: This method may be less desirable because it strictly requires a return visit after three days to replace the missing frames.
Choose this method when patience and colony calm are valued above speed.
Summary Table:
| Step | Action | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Remove 5 frames | Creates a void for the package cage |
| Queen Placement | Secure between frames 2 & 3 | Position screen side up for airflow |
| Installation | Place cage in void | Do not shake; let bees migrate naturally |
| Duration | Wait 3 days | Allows the colony to settle undisturbed |
| Completion | Remove cage & replace frames | Confirm queen release and restore hive structure |
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