Identity Theft

Whoever you are, posing as me, you'd better like bees!

Space for a Bee

The bee space ( a gap between 6 - 9 mm.). Within the hive a gap less than 6mm is filled with propolis (bee glue - derived from tree resins) to close it off: a space more than 9mm is filled with comb, allowing of course the bee space (for it to traverse and move through the comb and hive).

The recent Apiguard treatments entail placing an "eke" above the brood frames in which to place trays with the treatment on. The bees seek to remove these foreign "smelly" objects: and the space in which they sit is a lovely space to fill with brace/burr comb and store more honey. Over 75% of my colonies did an excellent job clearing the treatment within the 4 week time span and also filling the void with comb! Even at this time of year.

Kicking Out Time

The end of the season (beekeeping year) has been underlined the last few weeks by the removal of the drones from the colonies. The poor blokes are badgered out of the hives, refused re entry, or even stung to death by their sisters! Having served their purpose for the season (well the lucky ones died in the fulfilment of their role) the remaining drones are now surplus to requirement and would be a drain on resources during the winter months.

On a different note, I looked to see if the mouse who took up early residence in one of my empty nucs might have upped sticks. I lifted the lid and there before me (with sad looking eyes I thought) was my "squatter". I really haven't the heart and though I may regret it, I placed the lid back on and left mouse to a winter in "The Ritz".

Disappeared

I put my second dose of varroa treatments on, and fed every hive today (using fondant only). However when I lifted the roof of my Rose/Warre hive it was empty! No bees, no brood, just clean empty comb. There were bees and brood a fortnight ago when I put the first dose of varroa treatment on. I cannot explain why and have spent the rest of the day theorising.
Tonight I went to a local bee talk which was very good - my thanks to Bob Gilbert the speaker.

Frustration!

Posted a topic on the British Beekeepers Forum tonight to see what other people think.... went something like this:
I am frustrated at recently passing a biology theory module with the BBKA only for it to be removed from the syllabus without any consultation to members undertaking the modules.
I also asked for a copy of their new training guide at the "offer" price to local associations, as I do mentor beginners and wanted to conform with the BBKA guide lines. I was told that as a "Man in the street bee keeper" I had to pay 3 times the offer price.

Time flies

I was chomping at the bit back in March and excited by the summer ahead. I guess I have been so busy with the bees that I didn't notice the months roll by. Now its' shut down time and the active season is over- its so sad to me. Now I have to hope and pray, cross my fingers and bite my nails; and spectate as mother nature and winter run their course. I will of course fill my time thinking, planning, wishing; repairing, making, reading, listening, and probably doing lots of talking (boring most people)! Can't wait for next Spring.

Bees Knees The One Show

It was good to see the plight of the honey bee and its'role in the food chain highlighted on The One Show this evening. The slot on the programme also gave an insight into how bees see and what draws them to flowers which have a quite different appearance in the UV part of the EMS.