Beekeeper Supplies – How Much Is a Beekeeper Really Going to Cost?
The good news is that a beekeeper’s initial investment of equipment is relatively low. This is especially true if the beekeeper takes advantage of discounts available for purchasing supplies in bulk.
Relocating hives costs money, too. A study by Project Apis M tracked the costs of moving 190 hives in one season and found the total cost to be $9,506. This includes transport and loading fees.
Equipment
The first step for any new beekeeper is buying the necessary equipment. This can be costly, especially for those who start with only a few hives.
Beginners can save money by purchasing used equipment from retiring beekeepers, but this comes with a risk of disease transmission from the previous owner’s bees. It is also possible to build hive components yourself at a significant savings. However, it is important to consider whether you have the skills to do so before investing in a project like this.
Several consumable supplies are needed, including varroa mite treatments, sugar, smoker fuel and pollen supplements. In addition, a beekeeper must buy or build a screened bottom board for each of his hives. This reduces the amount of air flow and allows for easy hive inspections.
Supplies
As a beekeeper, you will need a smoker (or something similar) to pump out cool smoke to calm the bees before inspections and honey harvesting. A small smoker will be sufficient for a couple of hives. You will also need gloves to protect yourself from stings, and a bee veil.
If you are planning on selling your honey, then you will need additional equipment like a labeler and barrel heaters, as well as bottling tanks and jars for storage. A good place to start is by joining a local beekeeper’s association. The annual fee may be as low as $10.
Many new beekeepers are able to find used equipment through the local beekeeping association and through their neighbors who stop keeping bees. These used items will often be a good fit for a new beekeeper’s needs and will save money.
Hive Feeding
Feeding is often necessary when weather conditions prevent bees from collecting nectar. If a colony does not build up sufficient food stores before Fall, they may sacrifice brood or young bees and/or starve in Winter.
There are several types of feeders. Entrance feeders are trays that look like frames that are inserted at the entrance. They are easy to refill and see how much syrup remains, but are difficult to defend in cold weather and can encourage robbing.
Frame feeders are a good alternative and can be used with a deep or medium box. They hold one gallon or more and can be placed on the hive floor. Mason jar feeders are also popular and use an upside down mason jar inside the hive.
Hive Inspections
Hive inspections are the beekeeper’s chance to assess colony health and progress. They may also check on honey production or disease outbreaks. Detailed field notes help beekeepers make decisions and spot problems that may arise.
It is important to have the right equipment when inspecting a hive. A beekeeper should wear protective clothing, gloves and a veil. A smoker and bee brush are also essential.
The most important thing to remember when conducting a hive inspection is to be calm and measured. An agitated colony can be highly defensive and difficult to inspect. Try to avoid disturbing the hive as much as possible and use a minimal amount of smoke. Also, be sure to be gentle when removing and replacing frames. This prevents the queen from being accidentally killed.
Bee Removal
Hive removal services typically cost $75-$2,000, depending on the location of the bees and how aggressive they are. Many bee removal specialists will offer a discount if you choose to relocate the bees rather than exterminate them.
Carpenter bees often make homes in soffits, roofs, and walls, where they can cause damage that leads to structural issues. Removing carpenter bees from these areas can cost up to $500.
Swarming bees are a good thing, as they provide vital pollination services, but a beekeeper will need to capture them and put them into a hive to keep them from returning. A swarm removal averages $150. A bee brush can help with this process and costs about $10. A hive tool, which levers, scrapes, and separates frames, is also important and costs roughly $10-$20.
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