Confused bees, scared kids & first sting of year

[David Stewart]

This is one of those, "I remember those days" stories. Got in from work today and my ten yr old son ran up to me worried silly and concerned because there were a "LOT of bees on the ground" in front of THE hive. I began walking over with him explaining the hive cleaning and bees dying story but he insisted that these bees were alive. When we got to the hive there must have been a hundred or more alive but very chilled new fuzzy bees climbing up blades of grass trying to soak up some sun. Having checked the hive last weekend and seeing two frames with capped brood from top to bottom I expected a bunch of new bees. Apparently the youngsters "thought" it was warm enough to fly but got chilled and couldn't make it back. My son insisted that we couldn't just "walk away and let them die" so there we are on hands and knees gently picking up bees and placing them back on the landing board where they promptly entered the hive. About this time you veterans should be laughing at the silliness of it all but try to keep my frame of reference...this is not simply one of my hives, this is THE hive. Anyway I guess I either pinched a leg or one was just ungrateful and NAILED the tip of one of my two typing fingers....Where was the camera when you need it LOL.

David

[peggjam]

Welcome to the wonderful, crazy world of beekeeping.

[Michael Bush]

I've noticed cold bees are more defensive, as far as stings, after all they can't fly away. smile.gif

[Mitch]

Sounds like your son will make a great beekeeper one day.He is thinking what is best for the bees not the beekeeper.

[Sherpa1]

Wonder why the young bees came out of the hive. I thought that the young bees served as nurse bees and that the older bees served as foragers. Is this correct? Do the young bees make orientation flights first and then reenter the hive to serve as nurse bees? Thanks.

[RonS]

I am impressed with both your son and you. Not many 10-year olds would give a squat about a bunch of bees, except to step on them, and not many Dads would act on this concern. That sting was worth it. Kudo to both of you.

Ron