How To Build A Robbing Screen For Your Beehive

Robbing screens are an essential tool for any beekeeper, providing protection against unwanted quests like robber bees and mice, especially during times of dearth or colder months. By building your own robbing screen, you can save money and ensure your hives are secure year-round. In this guide, we’ll walk through the simple steps to create a durable robber screen using affordable, easy-to-find materials.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s what you’ll require for this project:

• Wooden strips (1x¾ inch) – These can be leftover pieces from other projects.
• Metal window screen material – This will serve as the barrier to protect your hive.
• Tight Bond III wood glue – A waterproof glue to hold everything together.
• Staples or brads (1-inch) – Use with an air stapler or hand stapler.
• Air stapler (optional) – Speeds up the assembly process.
• Screws – To secure the screen to the hive.
• Saw – For cutting the wood strips to the right size.
• Measuring tape – To ensure everything is cut accurately.
• Sandpaper – For smoothing the edges of the wood frame.

Step 2: Cut the Wood for the Frame

Measure the entrance of your beehive to determine the dimensions for your robbing screen. You’ll want the frame to cover the entire entrance with a bit of overlap to attach it securely.

1. Cut the 1x¾ inch wooden strips to the length and width of your beehive entrance.
2. Once cut, sand the edges of the wood to remove any rough areas that might prevent a snug fit.

Tip: Use leftover wood scraps to save on costs. The thickness doesn’t need to be exact, but it should be sturdy enough to hold the screen securely.

Step 3: Assemble the Frame

Now that your wood is cut, it’s time to assemble the frame.

1. Lay the wood pieces out on a flat surface, forming a rectangular or square shape that matches the size of your hive entrance.
2. Apply a small amount of Tight Bond III wood glue to the ends of each strip where they will join.
3. Use an air stapler or brad nails to secure the corners. If you don’t have an air stapler, a hand stapler and small screws will work just as well.
4. Make sure the frame is square by measuring diagonally from corner to corner and adjusting if necessary.

Tip: Apply only a small amount of glue to avoid excess. You can easily wipe off any extra glue before it dries.

Step 4: Attach the Robbing Sreen Material

With your frame ready, the next step is to attach the screen.

1. Cut the metal window screen to fit the frame, leaving about 1 inch of extra material on all sides.
2. Lay the screen over the frame and pull it tight so there are no gaps or sagging areas.
3. Using the air stapler or a hand stapler, attach the screen to the frame by stapling along the edges every few inches.
4. Trim any excess screen material with scissors or a utility knife.
5. Drill a 1/2 inch hole on top of frame on either side. To allow bees to enter and exit hive. A small slot can also be cut in instead of round hole.

Tip: Metal window screen works well and is budget-friendly, but if you want added strength, you can use hardware cloth instead.

Step 5: Install the Robbing Screen on Your Hive

Now that your robber screen is assembled, it’s time to install it on the hive.

1. Position the screen over the hive entrance, ensuring it fits snugly but still allows the bees to pass through the small openings.
2. Use small screws to attach the frame to the front of the hive, securing it in place. You can also use removable screws or hooks if you want to be able to take the screen off when it’s not needed.
3. Double-check that the screen is tight and there are no gaps where pests could squeeze through.

Tip: In colder months, the robber screen will not only deter robber bees but also prevent mice from sneaking into your hive for warmth.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance Tips

• Sagging screen: If the screen begins to sag over time, re-tighten it or consider replacing it with a sturdier material like hardware cloth.
• Regular inspection: Check the screen periodically for damage, especially after storms or harsh weather.
• Adjustability: For easier hive maintenance, consider making your screen removable by attaching it with hooks or wingnuts.

Conclusion Of Building A Robbing Screen

Building a robber screen is a simple, effective way to protect your hive from pests and robbing bees. By following these steps, you’ll have a sturdy, homemade screen that keeps your hive secure, allowing your bees to focus on what they do best. Start your project today and give your hive the protection it deserves!