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Where to obtain tubes for bee hotels.

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  • In theory, I guess a decent sized block of wood would probably suffice. In this example drilling multiple holes in the wood with my drill press (all square & straight). I've not established lengths and diameters yet, but I shall look at every link that has been posted on this thread-thank you.
  • @young codger We don't really think about the min/max...we just do it with what we have.
    We don't glue any of them , they are just fitted into the space...an old down pipe!
  • Blue OnionBlue Onion Posts: 2,995
    Elderflower older growth is very soft up through the center, super easy to run a drill bit up through the end of cut lengths to pull out the punky filling.  Find someone who is happy to have you clear out older branches - it will encourage new growth for the owner.  
    Utah, USA.
  • young codgeryoung codger Posts: 543
    edited January 2022
    I will probably drill a series of holes in a couple of house bricks-the old type. They are solid and a are a full brick-meaning flush on all 4 sides.

    It is not everyone's cup of tea, but I like doing little jobs like that. The drill press tool I have makes drilling through hard material a lot easier. 

    I feel sure that I will certainly utilise the good ideas/methods that have been shared in this thread, and in the links too-thank you. We can never do too much to help bees, alongside the sugar beet growers and environment agency.  :o
  • FireFire Posts: 19,096
    I would check the advised channel depth and bit gauge. Years ago I drilled into logs in various gauges and the bees were never remotely interested. If the channel isn't deep enough, the bees won't use them.
  • LoxleyLoxley Posts: 5,698
    edited January 2022
    According to this guy, who really knows his onions, you want some holes 2-5mm and some 6-9mm, to suit different species of bee. 150mm min. depth.

    Orientation and open-ness to the sky are also important factors. You're probably best off placing several in different locations to hedge your bets. 
    "What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour". 
  • FireFire Posts: 19,096
    The Bumblebee Trust link above gives advised dimensions for mason bees. Micro bees like much small grade channels.


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