Smart Bottom Board Pest-Checking Tray

Maintain the pest-monitoring functions of your Hive Doctor base with a replacement Smart Bottom Board tray from Hornsby Beekeeping Supplies.

This removable component sits below the screened floor, where it can collect fallen mites and create the enclosed lower space used for small hive beetle trapping.

A Clearer View Below the Colony

Debris falling through a screened bottom board can reveal useful information about colony activity. More importantly, the tray allows beekeepers to look for Varroa mites that have dropped naturally or after the correct use of registered miticide strips.

Regular inspection makes it easier to identify changes between checks. Record the hive number, inspection date and observed mite count so results can be compared over time.

The product page presents the tray as a tool for inspecting Varroa drop and quickly assessing mite presence.

Supporting Small Hive Beetle Control

The installed tray also creates a dark cavity beneath the screen. Because small hive beetles seek protected spaces, this cavity can be used as part of the Hive Doctor trapping design.

Clean the tray whenever insects or hive debris accumulate. A dirty or obstructed tray may make pest checks more difficult and reduce the value of recorded results.

Installation Checklist

• Confirm compatibility with the Hive Doctor Smart Bottom Board
• Slide the tray fully into its designated position
• Check that it sits level beneath the screen
• Inspect it at regular intervals
• Record Varroa drop when monitoring mites
• Remove beetles and accumulated debris
• Clean and dry the tray before reinsertion

Each Smart Bottom Board requires two pest-checking trays. This should be considered when replacing missing components or completing a new base.

Monitoring Is More Than One Tray

The presence or absence of mites on the tray should not be treated as a complete diagnosis. Use suitable alcohol-wash, soapy-water or sugar-shake monitoring where appropriate, and follow current Australian Varroa-management guidance.

Small hive beetle management also depends on colony strength, available hive space and regular inspections.

Buy the Smart Bottom Board Varroa and Beetle Pest Tray from Hornsby Beekeeping Supplies. Order two trays for each compatible board, or call 02 9477 5569 for assistance.