First Swarm - nearly!

[thedeaddiplomat]

Got a call last night to my first ever swarm.

Checked (I think) all of the things that might prevent a wasted journey: thousands of bees; all clustered in a tree; just eight feet up; a few scout bees about. Seemed too good to be true for someone who has several spare hives due to laying workers and other minor disasters. Promised to come around in an hour or so.

Suited up, sorted out skep, sheet, smoker (just in case), water spray, saw, spare brood box, floor, QE, crown board, gin, tonic, caviar etc. Loaded car (causing much mirth to the B&B guests just arriving). Started engine - to see current Lady DD in rearview mirror waving telephone. Swarm has flown the coop - to where, no one knows!

 

[tonybloke]

it's when you've driven to the site to be informed 'they left just as you pulled onto the drive' ...............................

 

[jimmybee]

have to the car per loaded saves time

 

[psafloyd]

I have had four calls about swarms since the BBKA reaunched it's site. Three genuine honey bees in accessible places I could not make (one when I was in the US last week), one suspiciously like bumbles but inaccessible and another today from a bloke concerned about a bumble nest, but happy to co-exist after a little advice.

All were really close, almost on my doorstep. Drat.