I've been using my own version of a bottom board trap for SHB. Basically using a metal baking tray about 6" x 9" (being the smallest I could find) under a hole about the same size cut into the board and covered with a fine expanded metal mesh. It's been working great and catches lots of beetles however as it is place just inside the entrance it is also a very effective pollen trap and about a third of the oil in the tray is taken up with pollen - the pyramid it for a has come up out off the 1/2" deep oil. I'm concerned I'm depleting the hive of it pollen stores.
Should I put them in a different location in future? Middle or back of the hive?
With the existing ones would say a 2" or whatever 'bridge' across the middle of the hole help the bees negotiate the trap without loosing their load ?
I'm having trouble seeing what you're describing. Some visual aids would be helpful. This is what I'm building.
(http://s14.postimg.org/50eignh0d/20140409_224141.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/50eignh0d/)
(http://s14.postimg.org/3mmvlchr1/20140409_224152.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/3mmvlchr1/)
RHBee, those look pretty good. How are you sealing the corners of the pan?
Quote from: drlonzo on April 10, 2014, 11:57:04 PM
RHBee, those look pretty good. How are you sealing the corners of the pan?
dr, I use the same method for corners that is used for shower pans. It involves folding a "pig ear" in the corners. I use light aluminum flashing because it's easier to work with. You can google the method. I make my folds to the outside. Here are some pictures of what it looks like. These are representative.
(http://s21.postimg.org/7w4jv3oub/2014_04_11_05_15_25_78584112.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
(http://s21.postimg.org/s4rxgto5f/2014_04_11_05_15_33_541933836.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
RH , Pretty cool. I've done those in the past with other projects. No sealing needed with them at all.