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Is there any opinion on putting swarm boxes near existing strong hives? Would this give the strong hives a sense to swarm to a box? I am watching my hives much closer this year for queen cells. It would be great to catch a swarm in this way versus new package bees. If I see queen cells, I am going to go for splits.

thanks

They seldom swarm to a nearby site. They like distance between the old home and new home. If you catch one a few feet from your hive, it is likely from a neighborhood hive, not yours.

Thanks Wally, Unfortunately I think I am the only beekeep in the neighborhood. I appreciate in the information. Maybe I will be lucky and attract another swarm.

I agree with Wally but remember "seldom" does not mean "never". One time over the last 6 years in a ten to twenty hive yard I watched a swarm exit a hive and move into an empty box about 75 feet away.

I have read that you should hang your bait hive a 1/4 mile or more away.