David Green wrote:
 
In reference to;
 
> << Is it O.K. to weekly, biweekly, or monthly to remove each frame from the
> brood chambers to examine them?  Is it O.K. to rearrange the order of the
> frames on a regular basis in the brood chambers? >>
 
>    It's a good way to keep the bees demoralized and unproductive.
 
I check my brood nest on pretty much a weekly basis.  They have yet to
become unproductive, and they show no signs of "demoralization".  A
commercial operation cannot pay the attention to a hive that a hobbiest
can, but to make a statement like that above is irresponsible.  I
routinely watch my queen lay eggs, watch foragers do their dances and
see normal activity at all times.  There  "MAY"  be a scientificaly
measurable reduction in productivity as a result of weekly inspections,
but you could not prove it by my experience.
 
Charley, go for it.  That is the way to learn about bees, and it will
not do any noticible damage to either your bees, or your honey crop.  If
you find something strange, you could save your hive from an early
demise.
 
The only condition is don't rough the bees up.  Move carefully and
gently to avoid mashing or rolling bees.  The life you save may be your
queen.
--
"Test everything.  Hold on to the good."  (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
 
Tom Elliott
Eagle River, Alaska
U.S.A.
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