On Wed, 10 Apr 1996, Jim Moore wrote:
 
>         This is a real beginner question. When inspecting a
> hive, assuming 10 fames, designated 1-10 with oreintation <,
> what is the proper procedure and are there any hints to make
> it easier to get it right?
 
There are many *right* ways :-)
 
This is an area where a follower/dummy board  D  can help.
Beginning config:
 
        D 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
 
Remove D and then 1, 2, 3, ... 9 then replace the D at
the other end, finishing with...
 
        1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 D
 
Next inspection, remove D, then 9, 8, 7, 6, .... 1
Finishing as we started with...
 
        D 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
 
No combs get left outside the box to cool during the inspection.
The brood nest order is not disturbed. Also, if you're only
quick-checking for eggs, swarming, etc., you could stop partway
through once you're satisfied all's well and push the remaining
frames along en-masse -- you'll start at the other end next time
so you'll be sure to check all frames within two inspections.
Note: If you stop part way there is *always* a risk you could
be unlucky and get a swarm cell on an unchecked frame -- value
judgement time.
 
Regards,
--
Gordon Scott   [log in to unmask]      [log in to unmask] (work)
The Basingstoke Beekeeper (newsletter)      [log in to unmask]
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Beekeeper; Kendo 3rd Dan; Sometime sailor.  Hampshire, England.