From: "huestis" <buzzybee@capital.net>
Date: Mon, 11 Jun 2001 16:29:53 -0700
To: <BiologicalBeekeeping@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: Re: Russians: Queens, Drones, Swarms

Hi Scott,

> Some good news. My bees have drawn out the 4.9 starter strips to the following
> average dimensions: 4.8 mm horizontal, 5.2 diagonal. Yes, this is not
> totally correct, but it's a good start. Would one average these measurements
> and get 5.0?

Measure the strips as you may find they are 4.9 in one direction and 5.1 in
the other (may experience in all that I have purchased- much stretching when
milled). NO, you can't average them like that. Must be 4.9 in all
directions.

> These bees are very gentle.

Good to hear.

> almost a lethargic temperament at times. They tend to cluster on the frames,
> hanging on to each other like you'd see in a captured swarm. I thought they

Carnies do this. If poor weather get ready for the swarm. Carniolans (even
if russian stock) aren't the yellow girls and you may need more than two
brood chambers to control them as they are very prolific. I have several
carniolan hives with brood in four deeps plus supers(skyscrapers as I need a
ladder).

> The queens have ranged in color from dark black to golden. These queens lay
> lots of drone brood. One colony appeared to have more drones than workers.

Well you used strips. I am finding this to be true also with my shook down
colonies. Use full sheets of foundation should minimize drone brood next
time and give more consistent cells. Cull excessive drone combs.

> Here are some closing thoughts. I would be skeptical about counting on the
> Russian queens if you're expecting to produce a lot of honey

Honey production isn't every thing you'll soon find. As you just had a
swarm of course they didn't produce.
Carniolans CAN be difficult to control for swarming. Please Scott try using
three deep brood chambers. I know its more equip. and money but if you plan
on using carniolan stock it will make a big difference. Those girls need
broodin' room to avoid the swarms. Just my friendly advise. If you insist
on two chambers try a modified demaree last week of may.

Also remember you used strips it takes allot of honey (food) to draw out
those combs. Much more than when using full sheets of foundation. You said
it rained for 21 days makes it tough to forage. You may not have given the
russians a long enough chance.

Clay