MultiHub Forum

I'm attempting to build a custom, insulated nesting box for a small colony of endangered native bees that I'm trying to establish in my suburban backyard, which is surrounded by non-native flowering plants. My budget is under $100, and I plan to use untreated cedar and natural reeds for the nesting tubes, but I'm struggling with the internal design to prevent mold and parasitic mites in our humid climate. The box needs to be south-facing, mounted about four feet off the ground on a post, and have a removable back for monitoring without disturbing the larvae, but I'm unsure about the precise diameter and depth of the tubes for this particular species, and how to create a waterproof yet breathable roof overhang that won't trap condensation. I need to have it installed before their active season begins in about five weeks.

Build a mixed-tube box: most cavities 6–8 mm dia, some 9–12 mm, about 100–150 mm deep, with a removable back for inspection. Line the interior with inert material and keep it dry to deter mold and mites. Add a shallow 2–3 inch roof overhang with a vent gap to shed condensation. Mount south-facing at about four feet, using untreated cedar and reeds, and inspect yearly.