Introduction: How to Make a Pollen Feeder for Beekeeping
A beekeeper can feed bees with pollen supplement if there is a lack of food. Australia is going through a drought that has left the bee population without a lot of food.
We are going to build a cheap Pollen Feeder.
Things you'll need:
- Small bucket
- A large open bucket
- Strapping
- Nuts
- Washers
- Bolts
- Hole Saw
Step 1: Small and Large Bucket
You'll need a small bucket that will hang above a large bucket. It will need a handle.
For the smaller bucket, we are using an old bucket that pollen feeder came in.
The larger one is a bucket that you would use to clean your dishes while camping.
Step 2: Drilling the Holes
The first thing we need to do is drill a series of 2 to 3cm holes around the bottom of the small bucket.
This will allow the bees to feed on the pollen while allowing them to push out the larger uneatable pieces of pollen.
Make sure to leave space on all four sides for the straps.
Step 3: Clean the Holes
Clean the edges of the holes with a knife.
This will make sure the bees aren't hurt by any sharp edges.
Step 4: Holding It All Together
Measure four strips of strapping.
We are using beehive strapping.
You'll need a drill bit that matches the size of your bolts.
Lay out the strapping on the side of the bucket, mark to points on the straps for the holes.
Step 5: Attaching the Straps
Push the drill bit through the strapping before drilling the hole, this will stop the strapping getting tangled.
Push the bolt through the hole from the inside.
Place a wash on the bolt and tighten the nut.
Repeat for the second hole.
Next, attach the three other straps.
Step 6: Measuring and Drilling the Large Bucket
Next, you'll need to measure and mark the strap at the right length for the larger bucket to hang.
Drill the holes.
Step 7: Attaching the Straps to the Large Bucket
Push the drill bit through the strapping before drilling the hole, this will stop the strapping getting tangled.
Push the bolt through the hole from the inside.
Place a wash on the bolt and tighten the nut.
Repeat for the second hole.
Next, attach the three other straps.
Step 8: Testing the Straps
The large bucket should hang nicely from the smaller bucket.
Step 9: Hang From a Tree
Hang from a tree nearby the hives using some rope.
Make sure the rope is secure.
Step 10: Fill With Pollen
Fill the smaller bucket with pollen, make sure not to overfill as the strapping may give way.
Step 11: Feeding Time!
The little ladies should be able to safely collect the pollen and also be able to push any of the larger pieces into the large bucket.
This is a cheap but effective way to make a pollen feeder.
Please make sure to check out full build video for extra detail
