Nicot Queen Shipping & Introduction Cage (Yellow) – Queen Rearing (100 pack)
The Nicot queen shipping and introduction cage is a reliable, reusable solution for safely transporting and introducing queen bees into a colony. Designed for ease of use, it helps improve queen acceptance while protecting the queen during transit and introduction.
Used by beekeepers across the UK, this durable plastic cage is ideal for both hobbyists and commercial operations.
Key Benefits
- Safely transport and introduce queen bees
- Improves acceptance rates in new colonies
- Built-in fondant compartment for feeding
- Reusable, durable plastic design
- Multiple cages can be clipped together
- Suitable for beginners and commercial beekeepers
What Is a Queen Introduction Cage?
A queen introduction cage is used to safely introduce a new queen into a hive by preventing direct contact with worker bees during the initial acceptance period.
The cage allows the queen’s pheromones to spread through the colony while protecting her from aggression. Once the colony accepts her scent, the workers will release her naturally.
This process significantly increases the success rate when requeening or introducing new genetics.
How It Works
- Place the queen inside the cage with a small amount of fondant
- Insert the cage between brood frames in the hive
- Worker bees gradually chew through the fondant
- The queen is released once the colony has accepted her
The built-in fondant compartment ensures the queen is fed during introduction or transport.
Product Features
- Large contact surface for better queen acceptance
- Integrated fondant chamber with protective lid
- Clip-together design for handling multiple queens
- Compact and lightweight for easy use
This cage is often referred to as a modern version of a traditional Butler cage.
Who Is This For?
- Beekeepers introducing new queens
- Queen breeders and suppliers
- Anyone transporting queens between apiaries
- Hobbyist and commercial beekeepers
Specifications
- Brand: Nicotplast
- Colour: Yellow
- Material: Durable plastic
- Use: Queen transport and introduction
- Reusable: Yes
FAQ
What is this cage used for?
It is used to safely transport queens and introduce them into a new hive.
How does the queen get released?
The bees gradually eat through the fondant, allowing the queen to emerge once accepted.
Do I need fondant?
Yes — fondant is used to feed the queen and delay release during introduction.
Can this be reused?
Yes — the cage is durable and can be used multiple times.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes — it is one of the simplest and most reliable ways to introduce a queen.
For advice how to introduce a caged mated queen, check out our video:
Compatible Products
Got a question? Just get in touch—we’re here to help.