Note before discarding bee package box

[buzzbee]

If you receive package bees and are going to discard the boxes,be sure to pull the screen off of the outside. People are always wondering where to get the proper screen material to cover holes for keeping bees in or out. Here is some that I know a lot of people discard.

[sjackson]

Great idea. I was wondering what to do with mine. I did not want to throw them away.

[BlevinsBees]

You can also use them for props in beginner classes.

[DoctorZ]

My supplier uses nylon (non-metal) mesh for his packages. I thought about saving the screens, but came to the conclusion that the bees would eat through the nylon mesh with prolonged exposure. IMO #8 wire mesh is the way to go. Tough to find, but my local Tru-Value sells it by the foot.

Anyone use nylon mesh in  a prolonged exposure? Will they chew through it?

[Robo]

After reclaiming the screen, I would highly recommend burning the rest. The box has many hiding spots for SHB. Packages unfortunately are a great way to introduce SHB into your apiary, and few people think about it, especially those just starting out.

[buzzbee]

Good point Rob.

[JackM]

Hmmm I had to pay a deposit for mine and can return it for the deposit $$

[AndrewT]

I gave one to a friends son who had come back from Florida with a Green Anole in a jar.  He kept that lizard for, like, five years in that old package bee cage.

[AliciaH]

I have one that was given to me.  I was going to fill it and try to seed hens and chicks on the outside, then hang it.  I don't know how long it would last, but the hens and chicks are drought tolerant so I should have to water often and destroy the wood.