Sad end to a promising year...

[itma]

I'll remember that one in case I need to use it!

 

[jenkinsbrynmair]

 

[Stiffy]

So, having begun to feel like a 'proper' beekeeper in my second season (with lots of honey and enjoyment), I think nature has prevailed and my progressively weakened colony is all but gone.

I've learned lots, especially that I DESPISE wasps, but I do feel very sad that I couldn't have done better for them and kept them going. A substantial varroa infestation that came on very quickly in a very strong colony, followed by concerted wasp attacks (whatever I did and even after moving) has just finally taken its toll. I'd moved them to a polynuc as they were on just 4 frames (feeding Ambrosia)... Now I could count them in their low hundreds and I feel that there's nothing more to be done. Queen is there, but no brood.

I know that this can be quite a no-nonsense(!) forum, and I'm sure there are many beeks with many, many colonies who think that mulling over the loss of one colony is stupid... I do apologise if this is the case, but some (kind?) words about starting again or what I could have done better would be greatly appreciated.

*sniff*

I am also sorry for the loss of your hive and to be honest I wouldn't like to try and keep just a single hive. I have a great deal of admiration for those that do manage it as when a problem occurs, which it will, you have fewer options. I would suggest that when (and please do) get some more bees that you look to keep at least two colonies, I am sure you will be pleasantly surprised at how much easier it is.
All the best
S

 

[Luminos]

When I lost my first and only colony, PolyHive advised me to "have a wee dram, and pick myself up" and that's my advice to you. I started again and now have six which I hope will be an insurance policy.
Don't give up - it can only get better!
Good luck, and keep us updated