rockdoc
Field Bee
- Joined
- Apr 3, 2011
- Messages
- 594
- Reaction score
- 0
- Location
- East Devon a bit of a green desert!
- Hive Type
- National
- Number of Hives
- 10
It all started out in the usual way. You make a mental list of the things you intend to do at the apiary and prepare for the unexpected. Well that was the plan anyway. Due to work pressure and other commitments, I had to get the last of my honey off midday today. The knowledge that Ivy had burst bud added to the haste. Three hives were the target. The first mess was trying to get the smoker to stay alight, the second was some very upset bees (I normally inspect after 6pm). Got through the first hive taking a few capped frames and leaving the rest. However, the second hive was mental, I was stung six times in the time it takes to say six!. The smoker went out so I beat a retreat and returned with the smoker sort of spluttering. Another two stings and then horror, there's brood in my super. At this point I'd had about enough of the bombardment so closed up and left.
Reflecting on the drive home, I thought to myself this kind of experience happening to someone who has not been completely hooked by this craft, would have them thinking about giving up. I confess to a split second of thought along those lines. However, I will ponder the whys and whats over a brew and will probably go back next time and find a completely different reception. Still need to know how a queen got up into the super. Problem with a new qx from a well known supplier?
Reflecting on the drive home, I thought to myself this kind of experience happening to someone who has not been completely hooked by this craft, would have them thinking about giving up. I confess to a split second of thought along those lines. However, I will ponder the whys and whats over a brew and will probably go back next time and find a completely different reception. Still need to know how a queen got up into the super. Problem with a new qx from a well known supplier?