Use of the Hive Tool

Session 4

The Hive Tool can be used for:

Loosening hive bodies and frames,

Lifting out frames with the "J" hook,

Scraping off excess burr comb or propolis from hive parts,

Scraping off debris stuck to the bottom board; a wider paint scraper is more effective though

Squashing wax moths larvae and Small Hive Beetles,

Removing a bee sting.

Use it gently and carefully!

Hive Tool

tba

It is important to clean your hive tool after use.

Bee diseases are easily transferred between colonies by the beekeeper.

Wash honey off with cold water when inspecting more than one hive.

For increased hygiene use an anti-bacterial solution, like Dettol.

Don’t use hot water as it melts wax particles and propolis.

Steel wool can be used effectively to remove wax and pollen from the hive tool, whilst rinsing with cold water.

tba

Back

steel wool

tba