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LavenderSophie · Provence, FR · Swarms · Jun 3, 2026

Bait hive setup — what actually works?

Lost a swarm last week — saw it leave, couldn't catch it in time. Want to set up bait hives to catch others (mine or neighbours'). What's working for you? Lemongrass? Old comb? Height? Direction?
#swarms#bait-hive
▲ 29 votes 💬 3 replies
3 replies
CorkBeeRon · Jun 3, 2026
40-litre internal volume is what scouts go nuts for. Old comb inside is essential. Lemongrass oil drop on the inside roof. Entrance facing south, ~3m off the ground.
AbejasCarla · Jun 3, 2026
Sloppy old super on a roof. Looks ugly, catches 3–4 swarms a year here. Bees don't care about aesthetics.
DrentseBij · Jun 3, 2026
Multiple bait hives in different orientations beats one perfect one. I run 6 around my property, catch 2–3 swarms a season most years.
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