Drifters and robbers

[beeno]

Hi all,
Can anyone enlighten me as to how drifters are able to enter hives in large numbers and "join" the natural order of the hive whilst "robbers" are fought off? Any research on this.
Thanks

 

[lebouche]

Drifters tend to be loaded with supplies and thus are let in.

 

[Russel]

Probably to do with pheromones and approach:
Drifters will usually be bringing a little gift, pollen- nectar- water, with them so are welcome as no threat.
Whereas robbers try to "gate crash", be in a "frenzy" and mob handed; giving off a different odor , setting off the alarms.

 

[beeno]

Hi lebouche,
I wondered if it was more to it than that as I could only see two bringing pollen, water and syrup being plentiful!

 

[beeno]

Hi Russel,
I was hoping for drifters rather than robbers. A guard bee sprayed me on one occasion and saw two fights. Otherwise it seemed 'normal', but rather busier than I had expected considering that I thought them dead this morning. Slightly different way in as well as I have put them in a nuc. Q+ but in need of more bees. Have reduced entrance to two holes. Certainly did not have the winter bees I had the year before. Have a feeling it is going to be a bad year's overwintering!

 

[lebouche]

Hi lebouche,
I wondered if it was more to it than that as I could only see two bringing pollen, water and syrup being plentiful!

Hi Beeno,
Didn't read the post properly - didn't see it was you!!! Normally I'm scrounging advice from you. Just thought I could do my bit and answer a q for a newbie.
Guess there might well be more to it..still I'm more likely to let a stranger into my party if they bring a bottle!