From: "Mark Hubbard" " I got home after dark yesterday and (without smoke,
gloves or veil) took
> off the outer cover, removed a syrup feeder pail, and proceeded to reverse
> the inner cover so the notched opening is facing up.  "

I would be very careful indeed on working bees at night without a veil. As
others have said, bees do not fly (unless there is a strong moon) but if
disturbed, they crawl - which is worse. They get into every gap and cannot
easily be brushed off.  They get on your back and when u pull off your top
before getting into the car they crawl down your neck  You beat ourself
black and blue.   I have had some very unpleasant experiences, chiefly when
preparing bees for a move.

On the other hand, bees do hang quietly at night so a quick simple
manipulation can be done before they notice - but nothing more.

Interesting that techniques have been worked out for African bees .  I
wonder if water spays are better than smoke for regular night working?

Robin Dartington.

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