Has anyone set out orchard mason bee nest blocks or bumblebee nest boxes before?

Question

If you did, what was your success? Any tricks to attracting them, especially during the first year and in a non-agricultural setting? I am a science specialist for a school district (and honeybee keeper) that would like to put boxes/blocks out at some different school sites to enhance a program that I do on pollinators. Want someone with experience to talk me into or out of this idea. Thanks!

Answer 1

No personal experience but this project has done quiet a bit of work with the bee blocks and should be of some help to you.

Plans to build your own tube nesting habitat

* Begin with a 4x4 block of wood. DO NOT use CCA Treated lumber. May also be two single or a double 2x4.

    * Cut an angle at the top of the block and nail or s***w a roof piece to the angle. This protects the block from moisture.

    * Drill a hole in the center - back, above the mid-line, on an upward angle for a hanger.

    * Drill varying hole sizes - 1/8", 3/16", 1/4", 3/8" - the middle range of sizes are the most likely to be used.

Hang in a sunny locations, 3-15 feet off the ground.

If, after several years, bee activity slows down, it could be the predators to bees, like fungi and mites are the problem. Re-drill the holes and drop the nest block in a Clorox and water solution for a half hour, dry and rehang.

http://gage.unl.edu/ag/BeeBoxes.htm

Answer 2

You should get in contact with Knox Cellars - they sell all the supplies and tubes of larvae for both types of bee.  They should know the details.

Answer 3

No, I haven't.  I don't think I've even heard of that before.  It does sound interesting, though.