[beebad]

Hi,

I was wondering about swarm behavior this time of year.

When you begin to see bees massing about the front entrance after hours, do you guys think these are the EXTRA bees that are crowding the hive?

I split my hives last week so there are no queens in these hives and they are exhibiting swarm behavior anyway which to me is puzzling.


Are these the extra bees?

 

[Michael Bush]

They are bearding. That does not mean they are swarming. It also doesn't mean they are NOT swarming. It does mean it's a strong hive.

http://bushfarms.com/beesfaqs.htm#bearding

 

[beebad]

Thank you MB. Love your book! It is a strong hive, all 3 made it through the winter easily and I reverse split on March 29th inhopes that they won't swarm...I do this every year...Every year is different. Thank you for your response.

They are bearding. That does not mean they are swarming. It also doesn't mean they are NOT swarming. It does mean it's a strong hive.

http://bushfarms.com/beesfaqs.htm#bearding

 

[Murdock]

I have a strong hive doing the same. Make sure the queen has room to lay (open the brood nest) If the brood box is full of nectar/honey add a super or two. Go back to your profile and add your location so answers will be more relative.