Hollow tree/ no bees

[Dave Burrup]

A neighbor removed several Box Elder trees that were hollow. Apparently for a long time. The cavities were unoccupied by bees. There was not any sign of bees at all. I have known of feral hives and swarms in the area, but not many. We have lost 3 swarms in the past 5 years. Would the fact that these cavities were never occupied indicate that there were actually very few ferals in the area? There are some commercial opperations in the area besides our few hives.
Dave

[Joes_bees]

This simply means the swarms in the area did not find those hollow trees to be the most suitable cavities in the area.

Honeybees have an awesome method for deciding the best new nest site:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgSbPkInTzs
This video goes into great depth and is fascinating.

[wcubed]

Lots of old trees are hollow with no opening for access.
Walt

[Acebird]

Our back forty (we call it) is loaded with box elder. I think the bees are smart. They know that these trees make horrible homes for them because of there weak structure. They are susceptible to wind, rain, ice and snow damage. Although they can completely up-route and fall over without dieing they damage easily especially when they have a rotten hollow center. I think they are a good pollen and nectar source.