We designed the Two Phase Bundle with one scenario in mind: a family or classroom that wants to observe the full solitary bee calendar - not just a snapshot of it.
Here's how a typical school year looks with the bundle. The first module goes in during February half-term - perfect timing for a spring science project. By Easter, children can see sealed mud chambers through the viewing window. When mason bee season ends in June, the module comes out (cocoons safely inside) and the fresh one slots in for the leafcutter phase. Two species, two nesting styles, one box - and a year's worth of genuine wildlife observation that no worksheet can replicate.
What Is the Premium Bee Observation Box – Two Phase Bundle?
The Two Phase Bundle includes our Premium Bee Observation Box plus a Fresh Nesting Module - everything you need to observe both mason bees and leafcutter bees across a full season. Swap the module at the end of the mason bee period and you're ready for the leafcutter phase without missing a beat.
How It Works — Step by Step
- Mount the box in a sunny, sheltered south or south-east facing spot (early spring).
- Mason bees nest in the first module from February/March through to late May.
- Swap the module - store the filled one safely, slot in the fresh one.
- Leafcutter bees move in from June/July and begin their own nesting cycle.
- At season's end, store both modules safely over winter.
- Repeat next year - bees will return!
Helpful Practices
Solitary bees thrive when their nesting space stays steady, natural, and protected. A few simple habits will help you create the perfect environment for them to build, grow, and emerge safely each season.
DO
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Choose a bright, sheltered location A south or south‑east facing spot gives bees that gentle morning warmth they love.
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Fix the box securely above ground level Around 1 metre high on a wall, fence, shed or post keeps the box stable and out of harm’s way.
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Keep the box completely still once nesting begins As soon as bees start packing the tubes with mud or leaves, the box must remain in place to protect the developing young.
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Let the bees finish their natural cycle They’ll fill, seal, and leave the chambers to develop through spring and summer.
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Only relocate the box after activity has stopped In autumn, once nesting is over, you can move it to an unheated spot for winter protection.
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Store it somewhere cool and dry over winter A garage or shed keeps cocoons safe until they’re ready to emerge in spring.
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Clean the box at the right moment If you harvest cocoons, empty them gently, then clear out old mud and debris so the box is fresh for next year.
DON’T
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Don’t shift or tilt the box during nesting season Any movement can damage the delicate partitions inside and harm the larvae.
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Don’t paint or treat the wood Bees prefer natural timber, and chemicals can discourage nesting or affect developing young.
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Don’t place the box in damp or heavily shaded areas Moisture and darkness reduce activity and can encourage mould.
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Don’t interfere with sealed tubes Once capped, those chambers contain developing bees — leave them untouched.
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Don’t store the box somewhere warm in winter Heat can trigger early emergence before flowers are available.
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Don’t leave old debris year after year Unclean chambers can harbour pests or mould, so a fresh start each season is best.
Patent Pending
This product incorporates a proprietary modular nesting system designed for safe observation of solitary bees. Patent Pending – UK Patent Application No. GB2611487.6
Ready to Order?
Get the complete two-phase bee observation experience with the BeeLife Box Two Phase Bundle.
Every BeeLife Box is now made from natural solid oak and designed in‑house by BeeLife Box Co.