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Tue, 5 Jun 2001 10:00:22 -0600 |
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> I am planning to make splits. To keep the flying bees, splits should be
> taken away at least 6 km.
> Question- when can I bring these splits back? Will the old flying bees loose
> their memory for old hives?
The topic is much more complex than it might appear on the surface. There is a
wealth of discussion on this topic in the archives, although it might not be too
easy to find in a search. I have written extensively about this here and on my
web site (below) under the topic of Spring Management, but will summarise a bit
here:
I notice the assumption that the splits must be taken away. This is definitely
not necessary, but -- depending on your circumstances and time of year -- the
best solution may vary.
* If the bees are not flying (no flow, cool weather for days), then moving is
not necessary. The bees will orient when they first fly.
* Or if they are flying the two splits can be put close together side-by-side on
the old site and the bees will divide between them. If one is getting too many
flying bees, a little moving of the hives will result in the desired split.
* Or, under any conditions, the splits can be put in a *totally* dark basement
or garage for two or three days then placed anywhere you like.
There are many more clever ways to do these things, but so little time...
allen
http://www.internode.net/HoneyBee/
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