Spring is such an exciting time for those of us in the beekeeping world.  Last week another swarm was added to the apiary.  I wasn’t prepared for how large this was, so instead of placing it on a small nuc box until the 4 topper hive was ready for occupants, I tried something new.  Using 2 follower boards and a wall of straw between the two…I added this swarm to the back of the previous hive that was captured earlier in the spring.  A 1/2 in. circular hole was added to the side of the hive for a second entrance.  I was nervous that it might not be far enough from the front of the hive and a bee war would insue.  Happily, this plan worked!  A week later I was able to easily move the new swarm into their permanent home.  These ladies are most likely Carniolan bees, and there are kicking butt!  This hive is very busy and making comb and bringing in nectar and pollen.

There official name within the apiary is the Maple hive…and they are doing great in their new home.