"Stephen Morris" wrote:

> How about including a marked Queen in the frames moved to the observation
> hive?

Pick frames containing brood in all stages, pollen, sealed and unsealed
honey, queen cups if you can find some.  If the hive will be kept closed
then you need to make sure that there are only young bees in it, as older
ones will be frantically trying to get out.  Put in drones as well if you
have any (depending on the time of year).  I can also be fun to take some
drones in a jar so that children can handle them - can create great
excitement.

I take the observation hive to the apiary and fill it, then leave it open
for 10 minutes so that the older bees fly back to the hive; then check that
there are sufficient bees left, but you do not want it to be too well
stocked or you will not be able to see the combs!

Also good to take an empty frame and one filled with honey so that they can
feel the weight of each, plus wild comb, propolis, queens cells etc.  Veils
and a smoker are also favourites!

I also do handouts about all the things that can be seen in hive (if anyone
wants a copy I will email it).

Peter Edwards
[log in to unmask]
www.stratford-upon-avon.freeserve.co.uk/

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