When I shake the comb

[BugsInABox]

on the average is it the hive or the flying bees that fall off first? I seem to remember reading it was one or the other - bit I can't remember which way round it is..
Neil

 

[Swift Nick]

In a mini nuc book I read it was the flying bees that leave the comb first, that was the recommendation for filling mini nucs, give them a light shake to dislodge the flying bees.

 

[Corbeehives]

older (foraging) bees fall off first as they are weaker.

 

[Ian123]

Older bees fall off or fly off first but it’s not that scientific. After a shake look at the bees remaining they’ll be lighter/fluffier in general.