Hi everyone, Tonight while taking the dog for a walk, as always I walk past my hive just to observe it. It was almost dark and when I got in front of the hive I noticed about 2 dozen bees on the front deck just loungeing. When I got back it was completely dark and I went out to look at the hive and saw about the same amount of bees on the front porch, none flying. Is this normal, I have never gone out to the hive past dark before so I'm just curious. I did a hive inspection today, did I disturb them or are they just sitting on the front porch with a nice cup of honey gossiping or is this a warning sign. Thanx in advance.
Scoobee
Just wait until July or August, when there are thousands lounging on the porch, covering the front of the box, and hanging down 6 inches like a swarm. Then you know you have a strong hive. It's called bearding. They do it to make room in the hive for ventilation. It's controlled by temp.
i went to change out nuc boxes on trap out. so i can make another hive i think i waited to long they was all down the front of the hive and hanging about 6 inches below the hive the hive had a top entrance wish had my camera