There is a growing concern over the decline of the bee population because they play a key role in the pollination of crops. This highrise wooden bee house gives you a chance to help provide safe habitats for these creatures. Crafted from high-quality wood, the home is sealed with a non-toxic, water-based finish and is designed to mimic the insect holes and woodpecker drillings that native bees are naturally drawn to. Hang this habitat 5 to 7 feet high on a wall or fence that receives morning sunlight and is close to native plants and flowers. Create a moist patch of soil near the house so bees have mud to seal off the tubes and protect their eggs. In late autumn, store bee house (with cocooned larvae inside) in an outdoor shed or cool, covered location for winter. Do not store inside your house. In early spring, return the habitat to its original location so the cycle can continue. Once new bees hatch, clean out tubes to get ready for the next season's offspring. It's important to keep the bee house clean to prevent mites and pathogens from building up. Make sure all bees have been removed from the habitat before cleaning. Use a pipe cleaner or bottle brush to remove mud and debris from the tubes. Rinse the tubes with running water (do not use a jet sprayer). Once rinsed, let the habitat air dry.