Leaf blower for bees?

[Sutty]

I need to extract some supers soon. I've always used clearer boards, recently with the addition of a blower from a paint sprayer to remove the stragglers.
Now also wondering about a benzaldehyde fume board, but I have a Stihl leaf-blower that might be effective - anyone got experience of similar?

 

[SWEET]

Yeah don't, a nightmare of a mess and not nice for the bees. I use clearer boards (Rhombus) then an 18v Makita for the few hanging about. Have zero issues totally clearing boxes using Rhombus boards and these are DN4 frames so lots of bees, fast effective and gone before the bees notice.

Like all these things, try the blower and enjoy the experience.

 

[DRam]

I have seen a leaf blower used, and it doesn't seem the kindest method of clearing bees.

It might take longer, but brushing frames one by one and placing a cleared frame in a spare super or in large bag or box, seems to be a far gentler way to harvest the honey.

 

[Sutty]

I have seen a leaf blower used, and it doesn't seem the kindest method of clearing bees.

It might take longer, but brushing frames one by one and placing a cleared frame in a spare super or in large bag or box, seems to be a far gentler way to harvest the honey.

My bees hate being brushed on the brood frames! Makes me reluctant.

 

[Erichalfbee]

My bees hate being brushed on the brood frames! Makes me reluctant.

What are you using?
Mine hate a brush but are fine with a feather. I use the thin side and sort of slice them off the frame.

 

[Sutty]

What are you using?
Mine hate a brush but are fine with a feather. I use the thin side and sort of slice them off the frame.

Mine is a commercial "bee brush" - they really don't like it.
I'll try to find a feather!

 

[Erichalfbee]

Mine is a commercial "bee brush" - they really don't like it.
I'll try to find a feather!

We have Red Kites dropping them here just now. Goose feathers are good if somebody keeps geese anywhere nearby. Your local FB group might help.

 

[Sutty]

I have big chickens!

 

[JamezF]

I have big chickens!

Round these parts we call them ostriches

James

 

[Erichalfbee]

I have big chickens!

Ideal

 

[robmort]

Swan feathers are best, but the swans don't like it!

 

[JamezF]

Swan feathers are best, but the swans don't like it!

You know you can just use the feather?

James

 

[jenkinsbrynmair]

they can break your arms if you're not careful

 

[Sutty]

they can break your arms if you're not careful

That's a well worn myth, due to the lightweight structure of their wing bones they can't.

 

[jenkinsbrynmair]

That's a well worn myth, due to the lightweight structure of their wing bones they can't.

you do realise I was trying to be humerus?