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Bnt,
A reducer will allow the swarm to defend it's new diggs easier. I would recommend a reducer with an opening about 2" wide. If a robbing situation occurs later, a two bee width 3/4" opening is...

That "bump" is a queen cell cup. Quite normal for a hive to have several of those just in case. I take it you are feeding them? Seems as if most of the cells are filled with nectar, pollen and sugar...

I started all my hives last year from swarms. All did real well and built up nicely. I actually was able to collect some honey as well. One hive did go queenless this year... it was a package.

This was brought up about two weeks ago as well. I've never had a problem mowing, or weedwhipping around the hives. The queenless ones may be a bit pissy though.

So, I was checking out the hives in the apiary and noticed something.... well... odd.

What I noticed, was that the hives in the full sun (most of the day) were showing a lot of activity. I'm...

They will cluster Frank, they will be fine.

Looks like a very healthy and productive hive. Your queen is a real fatty (beauty) as well! lol

Heavy smoke for a period of time will make them abondon ship so to speak. Don't even ask how I know.

Depends on whether the paint is lead based or not. If not, you can always run one side through a planer. Hint: the blades may need to be sharpened afterwards.
I DO NOT recommend sanding any paint...

Cut out? Where is the comb from the cut out? Where are the stores from the cut out? How big was the cut out?
That's the problem with screened bottom boards... the scent of the hive can escape and...

I see queen cups, which are normal. I don't however see enough room for anything to lay an egg in yet.

I am in the process of modifying the swarm capture jug to capture bees on a larger branch. I will be making slots to accept a bee brush through the center of the top of the water bottle. It will be a...

Swarms are very touchy. Hive them up in a regular hive set up and use the smallest (two bee width) reducer for a few days. IF the bees feel like they are unable to defend their new diggs, the will...

Thanks for the "Like" mann. I appreciate the kudos.
Keep an eye on us as we have bee cut outs scheduled in.

JW,
I've seen the bucks in your part of the US. I don't blame you at all for getting buck fever (probably happens a lot, right?)! Kansas has some MONSTERS.

It (the syrup) does get taken care of rather quickly.

Feeding? New package? More info will help.

One bit of advice after watching the video. I learned (the hard way) to make sure the cone is bent upward on a sharp angle. This will keep the dead bees on the bottom, but still allow the live bees...

I think they will be fine. Sit back, watch and relax for about a week or so.... then check for eggs.

THAT'S how it's done. lol

Try this next time. Place a drawn frame next to the swarm. They will march right onto the frame. Do this with all the frames. Chances are the queen will migrate to the frames as well.
Once you have...

What I would do is allow the bees to remain exactly where they are for at least two weeks. This will give them time to settle in and start brood. I would then close them up at dusk and bring them to...

IF at all possible, get a few frames of drawn comb in a hive body and brush the bees into that hive. Once they move in, cut the new comb off the bait hive and install into a foundationless frame and...

First one for the season 5-19-13
All the details on our fb page.

Yes they can (as you found out 5 times). lol
They do make a foam that is bug proof, but I use silicone which works every time.