Distinctive fermenting smell...?

[bjosephd]

Hi all...

So on sliding out my inspection board to see what's dropping out the hive at the moment I smelled what I would describe as a very distinctive smell of fermentation.

I've heard talk of 'fermented pollen' but never had any idea it would smell so strong!

I'm assuming (correctly I hope) that this is all good and just another one of the interesting experiences of beekeeping.

They are certainly piling in the pollen!

Mouse guards just taken off too, hope the mice are not hoping to jump in at the first opportunity!

BJD

 

[B+.]

very distinctive smell of fermentation.

Waxmoth ?

If waxmoth larvae do a lot of damage, the tunelling (usually under comb that has had brood in it) can expose capped honey to the air. This can make a fermentation smell as it absorbs moisture from the air

 

[bjosephd]

Oh damn.

Much to panic about? Or just one of those things? Will the colony clean up and eject as they build up?

Or do I need a more invasive remedy? I'm reluctant to pull any frames until next month, even just to check for waxmoth. The colony seem reasonably strong coming out of winter now and at most I will pop the crown board to feed at the end of the week IF they seem a bit light... then I am away for a few weeks.

Then once back I guess a clean up operation might be in order and a fresh BB?

BJD

 

[B+.]

Much to panic about? Or just one of those things? Will the colony clean up and eject as they build up?

IF I am right, they can make a mess of your comb and wood-ware - but, it I may not be right.
A strong colony will usually occupy the combs and keep waxmoths under control. However, at this time of year, the one thing you wont have is a strong colony.
You are right about timing though. The weather is a bit up-and-down to be pulling combs out. You might take a peak at some of the outer combs if you get a warm spell but don't go pulling any brood out.
Others may have other ideas though.

 

[bjosephd]

Friday looks like a 'warm sunny' day. I'll see what I can see that lunchtime. 12oC I think.