At 08:39 AM 9/16/2005, Aaron Morris wrote:

>Many have asked for a method to euthanizing a hive that will not
>contaminate honey and combs.
>
>The method I use if sulfur fumes.


Sorry Aaron, but I think this is a bad idea.  Sulfur can and will end up in
the wax.  Lingering amounts may results in causing any new bees that are
introduced to abscond.  I can provide references.

Sulfur is an inorganic PESTICIDE.   Unlike the organic pesticides that
break down into other compounds (which may be less, more, or similar in
toxicity to the parent compound), sulfur is an element -- its not going
anywhere soon.

So how can one kill a hive without leaving nasty residues?  For an
occasional hive, its simple.  Probably the safest and most humane method is
to use C02 (carbon dioxide).  Compressed in a tank, its a gas - any
university, most gas supply houses (where you get gases for welders, etc.)
can provide.  Or, easier and safer yet, get a big block of dry ice, as it
'melts' it will produce the gas.  Just be sure to wear gloves, the ice will
instantly freeze flesh (frost bite).  Remember, cold goes down, so throw
the block on top, then bag the whole thing in a plastic trash bag to
contain the gas.

The bees just go to sleep.

Now, if you're hard hearted, just bag the hive in a plastic garbage bag on
a hot day.  The colony will heat prostrate (usually takes less than an hour).

Jerry

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