Recent content by bodlamby

Clemcook, I united two queenless colonies and added a frame of eggs to raise a queen. From that moment to me spotting 5 day old larvae was 4 1/2 weeks. Did your bees remain calm on the last inspection and act like there was a queen. Mine did on an inspection that was 3 weeks after the addition...

I have previously treated with Apiguard by trowelling the contents onto the top of each frame. Therefore keeping the crownboard on top without the need for an eke This then has the effect of all of the hive getting a good treatment rather than the section of the hive where the tray is. I thought...

Why don't you try this one. Made to test honey. The user manual states that it doesn't need calibrating. http://refractometershop.com/shop/shop.php?action=full&id=101

Hello All, On Saturday I checked my inspection board for varroa drop when I noticed this little beetle routing around in the debris. Does anybody have a clue as to what type of beetle, or possibly weevil, it is.

I had a look at my hive last night and the bees have taken down half of the rapid feeder syrup (2:1 mix with added Hive Alive). I couldn't see the feeding cone because of the amount of bees! I left the drowned bees in the syrup and the other bees are using them as floats. So even in death they...

I've got something the other way round. I was watching the hive when a wasp flew down to a bee that was holding on a grass stalk. After a brief tussle the wasp flew off holding onto something that looked like the bee. I looked at the area where the fight had taken place and this is what I found...

I have carried out the same treat and feed scenario as you have this year. I did it due to what I thought were time constraints with regards to the temperature and Apiguards effectiveness. I only have a small colony (new to me in July) so only placed 25grams onto the top of the frames on a piece...

Hello Malx, I've managed to visit the association apiary twice now. The first weekend was a non starter as far as opening the hives was concerned because they were dealing with a swarm from one of the hives. The second weekend was really good. The experienced keeper opened the 4 hives in turn...

Great information from everybody. I've already warned my wife to expect cash shortages, but I'm blaming her anyway. At the beginning the year she told me to stop talking about keeping bees and get on and actually keep some... So indirectly, all the costs have already been approved!! Happy Days

I've previously looked at the possibility of making full brood boxes and supers using plans found on this forum. But the annoying thing was that when I found the right size timber from a supplier it was only a nominal size and the actual size could differ significantly and so mess up the...

Thank you all for the replies and information. I will be buying a few of the items just now and when the bank account allows, a few more. There is a mentor I can work with a couple of miles away who is willing to help. The books that were recommended by my local association were the Hooper...

I understand your sentiment now dishmop. What I should have said is "enough to get started with my first nuc" But that seemed too long for a posting header and at least it grabbed your attention. So, is there anything you feel I need to help my first colony or assist me, initially. Thanks

I was warned about the buying frenzy that accompanies beekeeping. The chap who presented the introduction course told me that he thought he could be in profit in six years (by selling honey) when he started. That thought has now disappeared completely after twelve years of keeping.

Thanks ABM. I'll put that on my list as well

I'm not sure I understand your 'giggles' people. or is that something you put into every post?