I hived two packages on 7 April. One migrated to the other, so I have only one hive with two #3 packages and one queen. Yesterday, I went to change the syrup and was met with about twenty bees as I approached from the rear at about 10 feet. It got worse as I got closer and did not improve. Today, I decided to check the syrup level and to see if the queen was out and busy. Yesterday, it was around 1730. Today, it was around 1630. It is 1950 and still daylight. Well, today it was really bad. I am lucky that I have a full suit and gloves. I learned that one does not wear low quarter shoes, however. Got nailed about four times on the right ankle. The girls were so hot that I started getting head butts again about 10 feet from the rear of the hive. When I took the hive top off, all heck broke lose. I tried to lift the top feeder to check the queen and boy, was that ever a big mistake. Now, I did not smoke them and I will never omit that again. Question, is this hive hot or not? If not, then I may rethink my new hobby. I had about twenty bees trying to sting my face as I walked a good 50' away from the hive. I had a few circling for about 30 minutes near the garage, over 100' away. I can put up with the stings as it was not that bad, but I am worried for visitors. Since these are new packages, the queen has not yet made a difference and the new brood may be completely different. Need guidance!
Oh, these are All American Italians from R. Weaver. Should be of good temperment.
Ron S.
[ April 13, 2006, 08:03 PM: Message edited by: RonS ]
Oh, these are All American Italians from R. Weaver. Should be of good temperment.
Ron S.
[ April 13, 2006, 08:03 PM: Message edited by: RonS ]