Each tube is made from strong PVC pipe, containing a smooth, paper inner liner that can be replaced with a fresh paper insert, after the new generation has hatched each year. Extensive research by USDA has found that smooth 6" paper-lined tubes are preferred by the bees over short 4" holes drilled in wood blocks. The 6" tubes also insure a higher female ratio among the eggs produced.
Each tube is made from strong PVC pipe, containing a smooth, paper inner liner that can be replaced with a fresh paper insert, after the new generation has hatched each year. Extensive research by USDA has found that smooth 6" paper-lined tubes are preferred by the bees over short 4" holes drilled in wood blocks. The 6" tubes also insure a higher female ratio among the eggs produced.
Each tube is made from strong PVC pipe, containing a smooth, paper inner liner that can be replaced with a fresh paper insert, after the new generation has hatched each year. Extensive research by USDA has found that smooth 6" paper-lined tubes are preferred by the bees over short 4" holes drilled in wood blocks. The 6" tubes also insure a higher female ratio among the eggs produced.
Try to provide fresh nesting tubes for your Mason Bees, to replace tubes that have been used last year. This helps protect against a buildup of parasitic mites that can carry over in used tubes. Unused tubes are still good, of course.
