Additional Varroa Tools

The RobberGards™ is an ingenious device to fool wasps and robber bees and stop them from getting into the colony.

These unwanted visitors are guided to potential food in the hive largely by sense of smell.

They go straight to the vent holes at bottom of the RobberGards™and try to get in, without realizing the entrance is at the top.

These intruders very soon give up and go looking for food elsewhere.

The bees learn within 24 hours how to access their own hive and it doesn’t stop them carrying out all their normal duties.

Eye Screws to secure the RobberGards to brood box can be PURCHASED HERE

Click Here to see how to fit them to 4 different types of floors

See what “A Kiwi Beeman” thinks about RobberGards Here

 

Varroa mite re-invasion

This is a huge issue in Autumn and it is believed to be the largest contributor to colony losses.

The varroa mite re-invasion is a result of visits from robber bees and/or from social bee visits.

This was highlighted at the 2021 NZ Bee Conference by an excellent study done by Dr Dennis vanEngelsdorp and shown in this video:-

https://youtu.be/PvWZjwUbLfA?t=1671 

Watch content from 27 min to 33 min. (Remember the study was done in Autumn in USA.)

The RobberGard is especially designed to deter these robber bees and social bees.

 

Some of the features and benefits of the RobberGards:-

1. The registered design is made from high quality stainless steel to withstand the corrosive elements outside and last for a very long time, virtually indefinitely.
2. Deters robber bees that want to steal the food supplies inside.
3. Deters social bees from other colonies that want to come and have a look and will mostly spread varroa mites.
4. Deters wasps from robbing food from the colony.
5. Stops mice getting in and damaging the honey combs.
6. Helps to control spread of AFB disease. If a colony gets AFB and has this robber guard, it is far less likely to get robbed out and spread the disease, before the beekeeper finds it and burns it.
7. Allows a lot more ventilation over winter (in hives with solid bases) to reduce condensation in the hives which is detrimental to the health of the colony.
8. Easy to block up with foam rubber if the beehive has to be shifted. The bees can still get lots of ventilation through the robber guard vent holes.
9. Very easy to mount, switch entries or remove with the use of the stainless steel eye screws supplied by Beequip NZ.
10. Has a summer position or rotate 180 degrees for the robbing season and winter. The entrance is just 25mm wide in this setting.
11. One of the 3 sizes will fit virtually every type of beehive base (floor) that is commonly used in NZ.

These can also be used as:

• Mouse guards
• Wasp Guards
• Anti-wasp screens
• Anti-robbing screens
• Robber Guards

Units packed in a carton:

RobberGard 153 - 200 / Carton
RobberGard 225 - 150 / Carton
RobberGard 360 - 100 / Carton

Pricing is per individual unit.

 

Eye screws are extremely handy for many applications.

One common application is to secure a RobberGard to the brood box on a beehive.

304 grade stainless steel, 40mm long, 20mm diameter.

3.9mm diameter shaft and 4.7mm diameter thread.

The inner diameter of the "eye" is 12mm.

These eye screws have a sharp point and can often be screwed straight into wood.

A 3mm pilot hole will make it easy.

Pricing is per individual unit.

Packed in bags of 200.

Experience the utmost convenience in monitoring Varroa infestations with our Varroa Checker, a versatile and efficient solution designed for beekeepers seeking quick and reliable assessments. With a focus on simplicity and effectiveness, this tool empowers you to maintain the health and well-being of your bee colony effortlessly.

Quick and Easy to Use:
In just three easy steps, beekeepers can efficiently assess Varroa mite infestations. Simply collect 200 or 300 bees, place them in the Varroa Checker, and shake them for 60 seconds in a solution of alcohol or winter windshield washer fluid. The Varroa Checker's design ensures a hassle-free process, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your bees.

Designed for Effectiveness:
The filter basket is the heart of Varroa Checker's reliability. Fallen mites pass through strategically placed holes in the base and sides of the basket, providing accurate and dependable results. The transparent bowl enables precise counting and reliable sampling, giving you a clear insight into the health of your hive.

Easily Transportable and Built to Last:
Crafted with convenience in mind, the Varroa Checker is easily transportable, allowing you to monitor your bee colonies wherever your apiary takes you. The tight-fitting lid ensures a leak-free experience, while its durable construction guarantees longevity, making it a trusted companion for seasons to come.

Guided Sampling:
Two molded guide lines on the Varroa Checker make it effortless to select samples of 200 or 300 bees, providing flexibility based on your specific monitoring needs.

Why Monitor Varroa Infestation?
Monitoring Varroa infestation is crucial for the well-being of your bees. Detecting a significant Varroa build-up early on allows you to plan treatment options effectively, especially during critical times like early spring or between honey flows. Optimize your treatment strategy by understanding when and how to treat, and assess the effectiveness of your treatments to ensure the long-term health and vitality of your bee colonies.

Varroa collection trays. White. 270mm x 350mm

Full depth plastic frame for Drone comb. Green.

Commonly used for monitoring Varroa numbers and also to help control the Varroa Mites.

Available as Coated in Beeswax or Unwaxed.