Past queen marking tube - E type
In stock
Simple marking tube for all beekeepers who call themselves queen. It serves to gently capture the queen from the hive and mark it. Marking and picking marker tube is easy to operate and thanks to its plastic construction there is no risk of damaging the queen itself.
Marking and Catching Plunger for Marking Queen Bees
Do you need to mark a queen bee quickly, safely and with minimal stress for the entire colony? The marking and catching plunger made of clear plexiglass is a practical tool that significantly facilitates work during hive inspection. It is appreciated by beginners and experienced beekeepers alike – especially in situations where a delicate hand grip of the queen is not certain. The plunger allows gentle catching of the queen directly from the comb and her subsequent marking without unnecessary risk of injury.
Key Features and Practical Benefits
The transparent cylinder ensures perfect control over the queen's position throughout the entire handling process. Inside moves a plunger with a soft foam padding that functions as a safe stop – it helps maintain the necessary but gentle pressure and protects the queen from accidental crushing. At the end of the cylinder is a fine grid with square holes dimensioned so that the queen, when properly positioned, "fits" into them with her thorax. This provides stable fixation and allows you to accurately mark her with paint or an opalite marking disc.
How to Use the Plunger Correctly
Operation is simple and quick. First pull out the plunger and place the cylinder on the comb near the queen. With gentle movement and light pressure, guide her inside (alternatively, after pulling out the plunger, carefully let the queen into the cylinder). Then slowly push in the plunger and very lightly press the queen against the grid so that she is oriented with her thorax facing it. Once the thorax fits into the grid hole, the queen is in a stable position and you can safely mark her. After the paint dries, slightly release the plunger, free the queen and release her back into the hive through the opening.
International Queen Color Marking System
A marked queen is significantly easier to find in the colony and the beekeeper has an overview of her age and replacements. For quick orientation, an internationally standardized system is used that works with five colors alternating in a regular cycle. The color is determined by the last digit of the year in which the queen was born.
| Marking Color | Years Ending in Digit |
| White | 1, 6 |
| Yellow | 2, 7 |
| Red | 3, 8 |
| Green | 4, 9 |
| Blue | 5, 0 |
Technical Specifications
The plunger is made of lightweight, durable materials for long service life and easy cleaning after work in the apiary.
| Parameter | Specification |
| Total cylinder length | 70 mm |
| Cylinder diameter | 40 mm |
| Plunger length | 95 mm |
| Cylinder material | Plastic (clear) |
| Plunger material | Plastic, foam, wood |
