Bees gone?

[ballibeg]

Friend with bees in her garden, 3 WBC hives. Very conscientious keeper but I didn't ask when last inspection was. Yesterday one hive was empty, no bees.

Any ideas?

Dave

 

[hedgerow pete]

yep its called 10 frames and small ones at that sorry but you are the weekest link we're off to find somewhere bigger

 

[Heather]

Dont understand that reply.... Please elucidate

 

[JCBrum]

I think he means that he thinks the bees thought their WBC hive was too small, - 10 frames, each 14x8 inches in size.

He is quoting Anne Robinson saying 'goodbye you are the weakest link, - you leave with nothing' from the television quiz program.

JC.

 

[jon]

Lack of space usually sets them off swarming rather than totally absconding.

 

[jimbeekeeper]

Dave I think you need to ask the keep a few more probing questions regarding last inspection?

Regardless of size of hive, when they are cramped they will swarm, but even after a prime and maybe a couple of casts there should be a at least a few bees left, ideally some brood and fingers crossed a few queen cells.

Sometimes you have to be cruel to be kind!