This quick-reference list summarizes the best practices suggested throughout the document.

• Nesting tunnels of breathable materials, not plastic or glass
• All tunnels have smooth entrances, free of splinters
• Paper and cardboard tubes used only as liners in sturdier tunnels
• Total number of tunnels in a bee hotel under 100
• Nesting tunnel diameters 5/64″–1/2″
• Nesting tunnel lengths around 6″ (3″–8″ is reasonable and other lengths could be good for some species)
• Tunnel entrances spaced about 3/4″ apart, perhaps with contrasting color patterns or 3D configuration
• Tunnels are in a shelter that overhangs the nest entrances by a couple of inches
• Shelter floor has drain holes
• If (and only if) birds, rodents, or other predators become a problem, a sheet of chicken wire goes over the nest entrances
• Shelter is about 5 feet off the ground
• Tunnel entrances are intentionally oriented relative to sun and wind; facing southeast is often recommended
• Nesting blocks or reeds are staggered by about 3/4″ so that not all nest entrances are in the same plane
• The shelter itself, or the fronts of nesting blocks, may incorporate yellow, blue, or white paint
• Hotel may be mounted on a larger structure such as a shed
• Nest materials are not moved or rearranged while in use (only in winter or at night if you must)
• Landscape includes flowers for nectar and pollen
• Landscape includes nesting resources (mud, sand, resin, leaves; see Appendix 2)
• Flowers and nest construction materials are available within about 1/10 to 1/4 mile from the nests
• Nest materials are emptied using an emergence box, then retired or disinfected with bleach every one to three years

Table A1-1. Threats and Countermeasures.