Can anyone tell me when I need to have swarm traps up and ready in my area or what to look for to start the season
have them ready now, hang them now as well. you might catch an early swarm and if not then there is more of a chance some bees will remember the location when they are ready to swarm.
if you have drones in your hives then you could have swarms at any time.
better to be early than late so you dont miss any chances.
just my opinion.
bailey
If you are in a bee club you could ask when swarming usually starts up in your area, or look in the phone book under apiaries in your area, they can tell you as well. Your department of agriculture may be able to direct you to someone who could tell you as well.
My swarm season generally starts in early March. This year I caught one on February 27. Last year it was March 1st.
Like Bailey said its better to be ready before hand.
...JP