Where to site a new swarm

[Terry G]

Well, as the new bees seem to have survived ok hurrah and are now going like good 'uns I've decided I can't live without the adrenaline rush of anxiety and uncertainty so I've lodged a bait hive up one of my apple trees. In the hilariously unlikely event that I actually manage to attract a swarm where should I site the new lot in relation to the existing colony? I know it should be some way from the home team to guard against introducing the evils, but how far? Are we talking a few feet? Many feet? Continents?
Getting the hive out of the tree is, of course, another matter...

 

[davnig]

a few feet is fine, 3 usually works

 

[Dishmop]

a few feet is fine, 3 usually works

I have worked on less than that. Once they have realised they have been moved and memorised where their new home is they dont seem to notice much else. Curious for a few hours and follow you round the garden tho.

 

[jenkinsbrynmair]

I thibnk what the OP is asking is how far awy from the home hive he should quarantine the swarm. - totally different location I would say.

 

[pargyle]

I thibnk what the OP is asking is how far awy from the home hive he should quarantine the swarm. - totally different location I would say.

Ideally, but our RBI was saying that apart from AFB/EFB spread of disease from hive to adjacent hive is unpredictable - all depends on colony strength and general health/genetics.

Varroa is going to spread anyway so if there is no alternative location available just live with it and check/treat for Varroa.

Most 'minor' bee diseases will be helped if there has been a swarm anyway - same as shook swarm to some extent. A fellow beek told me that hives witb real disease problems tend not to swarm anyway ... not sure whether this is right or not - been looking on the web for evidence but can't find any.

 

[johncorne]

Getting the hive out of the tree is, of course, another matter...

Is the hive straped up while in the tree?

Jc

 

[Terry G]

Is the hive straped up while in the tree?

Jc

Yes, it's got one strap round it and the brood box is attached to the floor with over-centre clips.

 

[Terry G]

I thibnk what the OP is asking is how far awy from the home hive he should quarantine the swarm. .

Yes indeed - I must try to stop whimsy triumphing over clarity in my posts.

 

[davnig]

I thibnk what the OP is asking is how far awy from the home hive he should quarantine the swarm. - totally different location I would say.

so he is, diff site then, but 3mile doesn't apply, although if from other apiary that doesn't matter anyway

kiss - different apiary!