>>It is a much simpler operation just to funnel... it will take about 7-8 weeks...  The queen does not exit the site...

I am familiar with funneling bees out.  Not getting the queen out is a main disadvantage for me (I like to collect ferals for evaluation).  The multiple trips don't justify getting the bees (I have no shortage of bees). 

A person mentioned Joe Waggle's method of inducing swarming by heavy feeding to get the old queen.  I am afraid there is so much space in the cinder block wall, it might take more than a 'ton' of sugar to get a swarm...

I'll give the cinderblock colonies my best shot and may have to entomb them eventually.

I was called to feral colony in the Queens borough of NYC yesterday.  Much easier to get. :)  The owner says the bees have been the continuosly since he got the place 5-6 years ago.  He's very observant and said he's seen the bees flying from the nest on sunny winter days every year.

Waldemar

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