To: Discussion of Bee Biology(EMS) | EMS: INTERNET / MCI ID: 376-5414 | MBX:
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Subject: Re: virgin queens
 
 
>   I have begun the standard practice of giving a frame of brood to all
>captured swarms (with eggs), and to any nuc, if there is the slightest doubt
>that the queen has gotten mated.  It works well; it boosts them up quite a
>bit, keeping a more even distribution of age groups of workers, and, if
>needed, they can make emergency cells.
>
>  The problems associated with swarming are a real pain in the neck.  As
>much as possible, it's best to prevent it in the first place.
>
>[log in to unmask]                          Dave Green      SCarolina
 
When I talk to novice beekeepers, and they say they are going to get
a (one) hive, I always suggest that, if possible - get two. That way
if, as most beginners, they are constantly messing with the poor critters,
and the queen accidentally gets - lost,  they can bring a frame from the
other hive to correct the problem.  In my early years I would hive
a swarm or a removal and never be sure that they would stay put. After
I started putting a frame of brood in each new start, I never lost another
one. And as Dave Green has said  - if the queen isn't there they'll
make new queen cells in a few days, from some of the freshly laid eggs
and the problem is solved.
This is a practice that was engaged after two of three, 3#ers w/buckfast
queens, absconded the morning after hiving, never to be seen again.
 
David Crawford
Pinole, CA.
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