Kevin Roddy <[log in to unmask]> writes:
>A few weeks ago, I wrote to report that I've taken over management of a
>"primitive" hive in a box whose brood area is "natural," i.e., no moveable
>frames of broodcomb.  I took the first step in removing the boxes above
>the brood area and replaced them with Langstroth type supers.
>
>Possessing a hive without moveable frames is illegal in many states, and
>I'm hoping that you all won't turn me in :> but eventually I would like to
>convert the lower quarters into moveable frames .  I *hate* parting bees
>from pollen and brood just to conform to state laws, especially from a hive
>that has been around as long as this one has, and other ways of trying to
>remove bees from brood frames (lots of smoke, shaking the frames) tend to
>get the bees agitated.
 
Why remove the bees from their natural comb?  I know people that have
successfully cut natural comb from its moorings and fit the slabs
into empty frames, lashing it temporarily to hold it until the bees
glue the comb to the frame.  They probably appreciate it if you
maintain the comb's orientation, so the slight upward tilt of the
cells is preserved.
 
Illegal to own a skep?  I'd love to hear the rationale behind that one!
 
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