Frequently Asked Questions
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How does Beewise work with growers?
We provide pollination-as-a-service to large growers of pollinated crops, including almonds, avocados, kiwis, melons, cherries, blueberries, and more.
How does Beewise work with beekeepers?
We partner with commercial beekeepers, enabling them to incorporate BeeHomes™ into their existing operations in a model we call the Beewise Beekeeper Network. We also provide traditional bee brokerage services.
How does the BeeHome™ work?
The BeeHome™ has cameras, a robotic arm, sensors, and other systems that allow it to execute many of the tasks typically done manually by Beekeepers. The robotic arm treats pests, feeds, balances hives, and more. Beekeepers can also remotely control the BeeHome™ via app or desktop, so they have complete flexibility with the upkeep of their colonies.
How do the hives within BeeHome™ work?
The BeeHome™ is compatible with traditional, wooden, Langstroth frames. The bees’ living quarters do not change much, except that a robot now extracts frames, rather than a human. The bees do not interact with the robotic arm because when a frame is extracted for inspection, the arm shakes off the adult bees, and they remain within their hive.
How many colonies are housed within a single BeeHome™ device?
Depending on the model and use of the BeeHome™, our device will be set up to support between 2 and 10 colonies.
How does BeeHome™ deal with pests?
The BeeHome™ uses a chemical-free, heat-based treatment to kill mites like varroa, without harming the bees. Other pests are identified by the damage they leave, and then treatment is applied accordingly.
Does the BeeHome™ apply pesticides?
No, we treat for pests using a heating mechanism. The BeeHome™ heats frames to a point where it harms pests (Varroa), but does not harm the bees’ brood.
How does feeding work?
Each hive has a dedicated internal feeder frame for feeding and is filled with nutrients by the robot every time the Beekeeper decides they want to feed a specific colony.
What happens when BeeHome™ senses harmful substances to the bees?
Firstly, the BeeHome™ notifies the beekeeper via email or text, and then it shuts the BeeHome’s hive entrances. This ensures that the hives do not get affected by harmful substances in the field, and the colonies’ health remains unaffected.
How does pollination work?
The BeeHome is designed with transportability in mind. It is compatible with a standard forklift and can be placed anywhere in the field/crop/orchard. The bees take care of the rest (pollination).
What about theft?
The BeeHome locks and is also GPS-protected, so we (and you) always know where it is. Additionally, there is an automatic alert to the beekeeper if BeeHome™ is moved.
Can the hives within BeeHome™ be manually manipulated?
Yes, they can. Beekeepers can access all the hives that are housed within the BeeHome™. The hives and frames can be manually manipulated just as they would in any traditional hive.
What happens if the BeeHome™ malfunctions?
Our team is notified if this happens and will address the problem remotely or in the field. Also, beekeepers can continue manipulating hives manually to ensure proper upkeep of the bees is maintained while any issues with the BeeHome™ are being addressed.
In which markets are Beewise's services available?
We currently operate in the North American market. We plan on expanding our reach in the future, so if we do not currently serve your area, please stay tuned!
How does the climate control system work?
Our automated climate control system ensures a comfortable environment for the bees all year long (both in terms of climate and humidity). When it is too hot outside, the system is cooled down. When it is cold outside, the system is warmed up. This allows for over-wintering and operating in warm areas too.
Can I buy a BeeHome™?
Unfortunately, BeeHomes™ are not currently available for purchase. In order to deliver our technology to the maximum number of customers as soon as possible, we are providing growers with pollination as a service and working with beekeepers via a bee leasing model.