The “Cottage” incorporates four trays, each having 4 nesting channels. This would require approx. 16 cocoons, 9 males & 7 females. A good return would be in the order of 112 cocoons. The dark trays have been torched to give a darker surface, which allows the bees to better distinguish which channel they are working on. A plexiglass sheet on the bottom of the trays allow a view of what is happening in real time. There is ample room in the “attic” for a hatching box.
The main box and roof is made of 1/2 inch plywood, and covered with thin strips of western red cedar. This should give a long lifetime in any weather climate. The entire roof is attached to the main box with velcro, making it easily detachable. This allows the overhang over the front to be adjusted. Less overhang in early spring will allow greater heating from direct sun to enhance hatching. In the heat of summer more overhang will protect from overheating.
My Mason Bees 