If I am successful this coming spring of trapping a swarm should I hive them immediately or let them work in the trap. The bars of the trap are identical to the hive they will eventually be in so if I try to hive them as soon as I see them in the trap would that cause them to up and leave when I move them over to the permanent location? They will be going into a KTBH.
If the trap hive is identical (although maybe shorter) than the hive you'll keep the bees in I would let them draw enough come so the queen can start laying before moving them. There's not a stronger anchor than brood comb.
Scott
Thanks hardwood, that was the answer I was hoping to hear. Leave them alone for awhile and let them establish a active colony, then transfer them. How soon after they occupy the trap and start drawing comb for the queen to lay should I plan on moving them.
Reason for all the questions I want to be right with a plan come spring. I feel sure I will be able to get a swarm off the bee tree. Hopefully an after-swam also.
I will have 3 KTBH and 5 to 10 swarm traps ready by spring.