TempQueen
Uses of Temp Queen
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Temporary replacement of the queen. When a queen dies and no other queen is available immediately or the queen is failing, TempQueen can be used to keep the colony queenright for up to 3 weeks. Remove the queen and all queen cells and insert one TempQueen. Once a replacement queen is available TempQueen is removed and the new queen is introduced.
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Shipping queenless bee packages. TempQueen is typically used to keep a bee package queenright in the absence of a queen. Use one lure per bee package. The lure will calm the bees and they will arrive in good shape at the destination.
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Holding queenless splits and nuclei. Insert one TempQueen between the two central brood combs of the prepared unit. The lure will hold these units for about three weeks.
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Stabilize disposable pollination units. The cost of disposable pollination units can be reduced by using TempQueen instead of a true queen.
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Improving queen rearing success. TempQueen used in queen mating nuclei can maintain higher worker numbers than non-treated nucs. Use one TempQueen per mating nuclei when it is established.
How to Install in the Colony
Cinch the cable tie (provided) around the lure. Attach the lure holder to the top bar of the middle frame using a thumb tack or pushpin. Yellowjackets are generally scavengers that prey on other insects, such as aphids and caterpillars, but they also favour sweet foods. Ripening pears and grapes are their favourites, but they will damage other fruits too. All workers die in early fall, usually after the first frost. Queens hide and overwinter in cracks and crevices, under piles of wood, or in any other suitable hiding place.
How Long Does the Lure Last in the Hive?
The lure will last for approximately 3 weeks in the hive. Remove the lure when a new queen is introduced.
Storage and Handling
Store lures in an airtight bag in a freezer (below 0ºC or 32 F) until use. Lures will last for 3 years. Avoid touching the lures with bare hands. Use disposable rubber gloves to prevent contamination.
Safety
TempQueen is not toxic to bees, animals or humans.