Colonies that don't swarm

[eltalia]

Makes me wonder if breeding out the swarming instinct is the right thing to do, as
reducing the reproductive drive can't be good for the bees, just better for the keepers.

This is bread for another topic as indeed swarmy bees are neither 'good'
for the environs nor for Man or bees in managed apiaries.

Also in relatively recent times there is a new(er) Community component
where backyards stacked with beehives are becoming The problem
and so bylaw is being introduced or existing Regulation policed
in addressing the issue - all brought to notice by swarming.

Bill

 

[eltalia]

Swarming has nothing to do with "critical mass". It is an instinct of reproduction of honeybees.

I have not seen in Australian swarming control texts any "critical mass" terms. From where you have got it?

Odd thing to say as maintaining CM is exactly a use of maintaining swarmy style numbers yet denying swarming.

"not seen"
I am quite sure - from past exchanges/reads - there is much around b'kpn you have not seen, Finny. Not entirely
down to lack of motivation as indeed (climaticly) the opportunity(s) for you and many many others here are hobbled.

Bill

 

[Finman]

I am quite sure - from past exchanges/reads - there is much around b'kpn you have not seen, Finny. Not entirely

Bill

Jep. If I have not seen enough during my 57 beekeeping years, it is not necessary.

If a hive has too much bees, the usual term is "growded".

 

[eltalia]

"not seen"
I am quite sure - from past exchanges/reads - there is much around b'kpn you have not seen, Finny. Not entirely
down to lack of motivation as indeed (climaticly) the opportunity(s) for you and many many others here are hobbled.

(edit)
tis not necessary.

For You..yes.. we can agree on that.

Bill