Does relocation make bees grumpy?

Mymwood · Aug 9, 2011

See my other threads but..

moved bees home last night. All went very smoothly, three hives, two nucs and one older that is producing a nice honey super. Even 'invented' a means to carry them by strapping them down, inserting lengths of 2x1 planed batten inside the strap and under the roof, and carrying them like a stretcher. Worked well and kept them level avoiding the bumps of a sack truck.

Removed sponge (in the dark) and retired. All quiet. Went to remove straps today at about 7pm and the established hive came out in great numbers as soon as I started removing the ratchet strap.

I guess, and it is a guess, that relocation causes upset? Not an unreasonable reaction? The two nucs were fine.

Mymwood · Aug 9, 2011

oh... and what is the advice on feeding relaocated hives as they find local supplies?

richardbees · Aug 9, 2011

Presumably you've relocated to somewhere bee friendly - so no need to feed.

drstitson · Aug 9, 2011

why did you not remove the straps before opening the hives in the dark. that's what i do.

Mymwood · Aug 9, 2011

yes, bee friendly area, plenty of local flowers etc

But what about the grumpiness, is this normal? Didnt remove straps as it was pitch dark and I was dog tired!

richardbees · Aug 9, 2011

Grumpiness? No, can't see any reason - and I've never noticed it after moving a hive.

Have you just bought some new aftershave off ePay?

Hivemaker. · Aug 9, 2011

Some bees can get a bit funny after being moved to OSR, and the same with moving to the heather,with regards to the heather, it's more likely they have just also had all there supers of honey removed prior to moving and the main flow is coming to an end. Yours will settle down after a couple of days i expect.