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Thanks again for the words of encouragement. I went ahead and installed them this afternoon during a very light drizzle. I'm glad I did, the feed can was nearly empty. All went well with much less...

Thanks, I would like to get them in ASAP. If there's a break in the showers this evening I think I'll install them. And yes, I was planning a direct release of the queen just as you described. Thanks...

My supplier recieved their packages this past Saturday (May 12th) and shipped to me Monday and I recieved them today (Wensday May 16). I don't know how long they were in transit to my supplier but I...

A paint strainer (hardware stores have them) hung over a bucket, large bowl or pot works well as the mesh is large enough for good flow but small enough to catch any particulate. Do it in a warm...

Indeed, we had weeks on end of highs in the single digits, lows below zero and over 160" of snow this winter. A very harsh winter for them to thrive in.

I'm trying the traps and am going to treat...

Thanks, exactly the type of control I was hoping for. I'll start assembling something right away. Thanks again.

My oldest and strongest hive has been nearly destroyed by the small hive beetle. Going into winter the hive was very strong with plenty of stores and it was during my last check for the season I...

I'll try the attic vent idea too, thanks.

My hive tops are peaked which leaves an attic with air space above the bars, I'll try insulating that space. Thanks.

For an expierienced woodworker with a well equiped shop perhaps, but for someone like me who can't make dovetails and can't produce the tolerances needed for proper fitting frames (not to mention the...

My motivation for starting with TBH's was monetary - I was able to build the hives myself with simple tools and inexpensive lumber. The start up costs with Langstroth hives is cost prohibitive,...

I use a hacksaw blade (very thin and flexible) and I ground off the teeth to create a sharp blade. Works very well, no tearing of comb. I still need a conventional tool for prying on one hive that...

I'm having some condensation issues with my 2 hives this winter. The hives have more bees than last season going into winter and I'm wondering if this is contributing to the problem. After a below...

We're having an excellent wildflower flow that should continue for another 6-7 weeks, I don't see how feeding would change the situation? Unless done to stimulate brood rearing or wax production...

I installed a package this spring which ended up building very crossed comb. I pulled it apart twice to try and get them building straight. The first attempt was poorly done and a few combs full of...

Yes, just gravity. Warmer temps help speed it up a bit.

I use a nylon stocking stretched over a large bowl, it's fast, gets what I want out (lets pollen through) and is very cheap.

More good suggestions, thanks guys. During my first cut out I did add a small, straight, empty comb from my strongest hive to the rear of the nest.

Just a quick follow up for the archives. I used the TX Ashurst designed cut out frame described in another thread entitled "swarm catching frames" to realign the entire hive. The brood from the combs...

After long procrastination and watching this debate I settled on the original (to this thread) TX Ashurst design. I started cobbling something together out of scrap wood and realized the 1/2" dowel...

Thanks for the update Mark, that is the best idea yet. I'm going to give it a try this weekend. Glad I waited before I built anything.

Rich

How would you cut a kerf for starter strips or a bevel on the finished top bars with a circular saw? These cuts are better done on a table saw. And while you could rip 2x4's to one and three eights...

I agree Mark, it could certainly be done with a hand drill. After all, we're talking about function rather than form. I'm sure the bees won't care if it comes out a bit crooked smile.gif

Very nice idea. I have a Kenya style TBH (sloped sides) but I believe I can build these by angling my drill press table. Thanks for sharing, the photos were great.

That is an excellent idea David, much simpler than the swarm frame which looks like it was designed with a Langstroth hive in mind. Thanks!