Schwegler Bumblebee box (overground)

All the different types of Bumble Bees in Europe are under threat to some degree. Of the 25 species in Britain, two have already disappeared. Protective measures are essential, not only because of the rarity of these insects but also because of their importance for cultivated plants. The first step is to provide SCHWEGLER Bumble Bee Boxes, followed by the cultivation of nectar-giving plants on which specific species depend, such as willow catkins and fruit.
Bumble Bees are vital because of their specific characteristics. Those with short probosces fly when temperatures are lower (i.e. between + 5 °C and – 5 °C). By biting through the corolla tube, which contains the nectar in some flowering plants, they allow Honey Bees and Wild Bees initial access to nectar in the early part of the year. Bumble Bees, especially the queens, carry four times as much pollen per flight than Honey Bees or Wild Bees, and are considerably quicker.
Varieties with long probosces are:
Bombus pascuorum, Bombus hortorum, Bombus sylvarum, Bombus ruderarius, Bombus humilis, Bombus distinguendus.
Those with short probosces are:
Bombus terrestris, Bombus lapidarius, Bombus pratorum, Bombus hypnorum.
 
Bumble Bee Box
overground | DBP (patented)
 
Siting: Private gardens, plant nurseries, orchards, parks, etc. Ideal for observing the various stages in the development of Bumble Bees because the lid can be opened at any time. The Bumble Bees will colonise these boxes on their own but details are also provided on how to place the queen in the box.
Material: Durable SCHWEGLER wood-concrete.
Colour: Olive green coating.
Includes: Supplied complete with wool nesting material sufficient for one season. Annual replacement sets can be obtained and include a cardboard entrance tube and wool ­nesting material. Instructions are supplied.
Dimensions: W 38 x H 38 x D 54 cm.
Weight: approx. 18.5 kg.
Shipping: Due to the size of this box, it must be shipped on a pallet. You will be sent a payment request after you've ordered, based on your postcode and the shipping rate in the images section.