by Hilary | Nov 4, 2021 | Intermediate & Experienced Beekeepers, Uncategorized
When it comes to small swarms, does size matter? In my last post, I wrote about those big beautiful swarms that get us beekeepers running out the door to catch them. In this post I’ll share what you need to know about catching a small swarm of bees. Undersized Swarms...
by Hilary | Aug 24, 2021 | Intermediate & Experienced Beekeepers
Swarm size varies dramatically. Some massive clusters are the equivalent of several watermelons while others are barely grapefruit-sized. These size differences may seem arbitrary, but when a swarm is exceptionally large or small they may need special care. Read on...
by Hilary | Jul 31, 2021 | How To, Just for Fun
I am no longer satisfied with simply going for a walk or a hike. These activities are now something much more exciting—they are ‘Bee Hunts’! Each stroll in the neighborhood or hike through the canyon is an opportunity to search for native bees and other...
by Hilary | Jun 23, 2021 | Intermediate & Experienced Beekeepers, Troubleshooting
Honey bee swarms can land anywhere. I’ve found them on everything from beach umbrellas to garbage cans. The most convenient swarms hang from low limbs like ripe fruit, almost as if they are waiting for a beekeeper to come along. Sometimes a swarm gathers at an...
by Hilary | May 3, 2020 | New Bees, Troubleshooting, Uncategorized
A dead queen in your brand-new package of bees is never a welcome sight. It can be especially distressing to new beekeepers. Yet, it is not an uncommon problem. Read on to find out about common scenarios that could result in the death of your queen bee and what to do...