[D Semple]

I think most giant swarms are really multiple swarms that have combined with multiple queens.

When hiving them if you see any type division trying to happen, like two groups separating, I put them in multiple hives about 10' apart. If they really are only one hive they will merge back together on there own in one of the hives. But, if they are multiple swarms with multiple queens and you dump them in to the same hive, one or likely both swarms will abscond from your set up.


By the way, using a vacuum to catch swarms is the lowest form of skullduggery. Ranks right up there with pot shooting ducks, tv dinners, and the designated hitter. :lookout:


Don

 

[D Semple]

According to my uncle the fly fisherman, the lowest form of life on Earth is people who fish with worms.

Still, leaving a portion of that diminished swarm up in the tree seems like cruel and unusual punishment.

Go back and have another crack at them, if they are queen-less they won't be concentrated together (or most likely many there), and left on there own will return to their parent colony. If on the other hand if there is a good size group tightly festooning they have another queen and can be caught and hived separate from the group you caught earlier.

Good luck, follow your mentors lead.

Don