Relocating a Bumble Bee Colony

[PeteL]

Does anybody have any experience in moving a wild bumble bee colony? I need to move one from a friend's hay barn and wondered whether the same rule applies as with honey bees - i.e. three feet or three miles.

I intend to put what ever I find of the colony in to a wooden box and take them to a new location, leaving the box and all its contents as a new home. Does this sound sensible?

 

[beeatshellards]

I have moved several nests, best done at night and if you shine a bicycle lamp with the red light the bees wont see this, IF you do move the nest to a wooden box make sure it has plenty of grass to cover the nest, and provide ventilation and weather proof roof, mesh will provide ventilation, also make sure there is an entrance /exit hole. good luck

 

[viridens]

I have moved quite a few of these little colonies, but have brought them back more than 3 miles to my place each time, so I can't answer that part of your question,

Good luck with the move.

 

[RoseCottage]

Did this yesterday...moved them about 3 miles but the terrain is so complex I doubt any would return if they have that instinct. Additionally, moved the nest to a corner covered with some plyboard. Some of the bees settled back in.it straight away others flew off. You can only do so much really...
All the best,
Sam