New Observation Hive

[athiker]

I have started an observation hive today. Took a frame of eggs, larva, and capped brood, with a bunch of bees, got them in and closed the door. I am feeding them of course, and have the entrance closed off for the time being. How long should I keep them from leaving? I am worried about them returning to the original hive as it is only about 100 feet away and plainly in view. Thanks.

[power napper]

Three days should do the trick in my opinion, however you sill still lose some of your bees.

[Michael Bush]

72 hours is the magic number. A branch or other obstruction in front of the exit will help. But I just shake in twice as many bees as I want and leave it open.