Bearding

[milkman]

The bees in my most active hive have been bearding lately. I wasn't concerned when we were going through the 100 degree days however, there are a few hundred still doing this morning,day and night. Is this normal? Someone mentioned a small hive beetle could be running them out of brood chamber?

Any help would be appreciated.

I have attempted to attach a picture.

[Jacobs]

I don't think you have anything to be concerned about. Bearding is normal for a hive that has a good population and a heat control issue. Mine have been bearding before, during and after the heatwave, including during the terrific thunderstorm and rains a few nights ago. During the actual storm, some went back in the hives, but a lot just stayed out in the rain.

I have heard of small hive beetles forcing a weak hive to abscond after sliming up the nectar, honey, and comb, but I have never seen small hive beetles have success establishing in a strong hive. The adult SHB aren't the problem--the larvae that hatch in unprotected comb are what cause the problems.

[Wally]

Is it worse than this? If not, don't worry about it. It's just a good sign of a strong hive.

[milkman]

Thanks Wally, I was a little worried because they were bearding in the morning and in the rain, storms.

I have two questions. Has GCBK assoc. ever considered purchasing an extractor for its members to use? Maybe charge a small fee to pay for it.

Also, have we ever considered having an intermediate/advanced level course for our members?

Thanks again for your help.

[Wally]

As for the extractor, the club had one at one time. I don't know what happened to it, or why it was disposed of.

I have one that I lend out without charge.

As for the course, the board of directors will have to answer that one.

[milkman]

That sounds great but there is one other issue.

My wife and I are first year keepers. We don't mind putting in the work and are quick learners but we have not extracted before. Do you have any instructions, video, etc. you could provide us for this endeavor?

I think we are going to take off three supers and we have another first year keeper who wwants to take off one super. So four total.

We wanted to try and do this one day next week.

We are all GCBK members.

[Wally]

An hour or two of conversation when you come to pick up the extractor should be sufficient to get you started. A couple of blow outs should refine your technique.

[milkman]

Sounds good, can I pick it up tomorrow or Monday?

[Wally]

Tomorrow if you can catch me home. Otherwise, Monday would be fine.
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