Warm Weather, Chance to Peak Into the Hives

As the mild weather continued, Amy and I got a chance to peak into the hives. Our two hives from last summer made it through the winter; one is thriving, the other hanging in there. Of our two older hives, one did not survive; this hive was weak going into the winter having swarmed numerous times in late fall. The other of the two older hives is strong and frankly a little aggressive. Anytime anyone tries to work with them they come buzzing out intent on inflicting a few stings. A couple of the ladies even followed Amy and I around after we had closed the hive and begun putting the equipment away. I believe requeening is in order, but I will have to enlist the help of a more experience beekeeper to help me with this endeavor.

First Inspection, New Hives

The last two weeks got away from me; by the time I got into the hives the ladies had managed to draw out about seven of the ten frames and build some burr comb where the missing frame was. They were extremely docile and seemed to be going strong.

While I was suited up, I also peeked into the other two older hives. Even with the early season swarming the hives were overrun with bees. They hadn’t began to pull on the frames in the supers, but I expect them to soon.

Here are some pics from the inspection:

Spring Inspection of the Beehives

The past few weeks of April have brought both snow storms and clear, sunny days in the 80s to Pocahontas County. I took advantage of the great weather to do a little spring inspection on my two hives… which successfully made it through their first season. Since I am new to beekeeping, I think my hives look pretty good, but I am not for sure, so if anyone has some pointers I would be more than appreciative. Below are some great photos of the hives earlier this week. Thanks to photographer Chad who took two bee stings to get up close to the action!