I went to Maryland to pick up 3 established colonies,
I was about a 2 1/2 hour drive back.
The night before, you close off the entrances. Its done at night because most of the bees are inside the hive. If it were to be done during the day, the foragers that were gone would not be able to get inside.
I met the beekeeper about 8:00 am. The weather was cool out, which makes it easy to transport them. When you move bees in the summer, you must make sure that there is proper ventilation. The bees will over heat and possibly die.
When I arrived, I sat them on the stands. and let them sit for 1/2 hour. When I opened the hive, they were mad. I guess I would be mad also if I was snatched up and moved.
Once they settled down, I fed them 2:1 sugar syrup. This time of year, it helps them to pack on the "honey" for the winter.
I was amazed that within 24 hours, they were able to get oriented and find some fall pollen.
Bees never cease to amaze me......
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