[buffaloeletric]

same happened to me. it was a late summer swarm. lesson learned.

 

[mike haney]

yes to ALL your ?'s what should you do? set up your package AND leave an empty box out for a swarm trap. good luck,mikr

 

[Sundance]

This time of year you either have some survivors
you overlooked.......... or ferals are foraging in your
boxes.

What are your temps??

And my advise would be to switch from Italians
to Russians, NWC, or Hygenics, easier on stores.

 

[propet12]

Thanks for the replies! Temps are highs in the 40's - 50's, nightime around freezing. It's suppose to get in the 60's this weekend.

 

[raosmun]

About the same thing in NW Ohio (Hancock, co). Lost 3 of 6 hives; one was a late swarm, this misserable winter did them in for sure, another a KTBH that was strong just ran out of stores were they last clustered, but very little left anyway (maybe 4-5 lbs at the tops of gleaned combs). By the way this hive is for sale! 4 foot long, 19" bars x 1 3/8 wide x 3/4", sides, ends, base of 7 ply interior/exteior plywood & treated. The bees loved the thing, but I am going to a long Lang. The last hive is still a question!! Plenty of stores left, strong swarm hive (same as an the adjacent hive that made it), Each of the hives bottom entrances were snow covered when I got to them. the one that made it just had snow that I brushed away, the other had the snow but also an ice dam, so I think they smothered or the hive just got too damp. No signs of desease, mites, or other nasties. There were a number of queen cells however. Maybe she died mid-winter and that was the end?
At least I have something to start with, unlike other years!
One VEEERY flustrating but interisting hobby!!!
Since I have not purchased packages or queens for a number of years now, the ones that have made it this year have got to be MUTTS!!!! Thank you Mr. Bush and this year answered any questions I had about "top entrances"