Quite an odd day weatherwise with spells of sunshine interspaced with rain and quite cold in the wind. I was unsure whether to drive over to the Assockation Apiary for the practical session. I took a chance and even though it was raining when I pulled in, within minutes the rain stopped and other cars disgorged beekeepers. Todays session covered transferring bees purchased by members from association hives into their new homes. Very interesting and informative!
On completion of that task the other hives on site were inspected. One hive had wild comb containing nectar and drone cells, some with grubs in the top space where bees had found a way through because of displacement of a plastic fondant box. Watching the removal of the bees and the clearing out of the wild comb was highly instructive. Better for learning to see something wrong and the remedial action to take.
Had a look at my hive when I got home but still no occupants. There is a complete hive on ebay for £50 with a couple of days to run. I don’t know if I should bid on it or wait until I have my first hive occupied???
On completion of that task the other hives on site were inspected. One hive had wild comb containing nectar and drone cells, some with grubs in the top space where bees had found a way through because of displacement of a plastic fondant box. Watching the removal of the bees and the clearing out of the wild comb was highly instructive. Better for learning to see something wrong and the remedial action to take.
Had a look at my hive when I got home but still no occupants. There is a complete hive on ebay for £50 with a couple of days to run. I don’t know if I should bid on it or wait until I have my first hive occupied???
