NEEPS

Martin · Neepster Joined: 16 Sep 2007 Posts: 663

evening before last, got a 'phone call from the "swarm man" at around 6 - got you a swarm, I'll be round at 8 - panic stations, rapid fettling of new home built top bar hive - here they are settling in about half an hour later -

-fingers crossed, all seems well, they're very mild-mannered, and very "black" bees, the swarm was found very close to Beachy Head

THEN yesterday, 'er indoors came back from the morning dog walk, and announced there was a swarm in the hedge in the field next door............
to cut a very long story short, I ended up capturing my first swarm....
armed with the secure knowledge that I'd watched a Youtube clip of how to do it, a stepladder, branch lopper, cardboard box, sheet, and a reckless disregard for health and safety, I marched off into the field, and by a sheer miracle accomplished it with not a sting! Unfortunately, I ended up giving it to the owner of the field's sister from who's hives it had probably emanated - but am quite happy to know I can capture a swarm......... a true baptism of fire into natural beekeeping!

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wildgarlic · Posted: Thu May 21, 2009 10:45 pm Post subject:

Wow well done you - and congrats on your newbies!
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Maria · Posted: Thu May 21, 2009 11:36 pm Post subject:

More pics please. I know you probably didn't have a hand spare when you were going for the swarm....but that would have been a picci!

Wonderful hive and new bees!

Really, not one sting?

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Better late than never!