On Thu, 30 May 2002 22:08:59 -0600, Allen Dick <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

>>  would consider useing 2 of the small marshmallows if they will fit.
>
>You're not the only person to tell me that, but I can't even get one to fit
>into the hole without poking out both inside and outside the cage.  What's
>the trick?  Are some of the mini marshmallows smaller?
>
>allen


Allen, those plastic queen cages (sold by Mann Lake and I assume other
places) are very inexpensive and very easy to use, and re-use. They have a
long, tube shaped entrance where two small marshmallows fit.

I have read, though, that in difficult hives the bees can chew at the new
queen's legs through the openings, which are larger that the wire on most
wooden queen cages, thus causing superceedure after acceptance because
she's injured. Whether or not this is the case I'm not sure.

The plasitic cages are also said to be phermone treated to help with
acceptence, but with what, and if it helps, I've no idea.

Very best

Tim Vaughan