In the past month I have had 2 colonies and 2 NUCS
destroyed by SHB larvae. One weekend I check and all
is normal, the next (less than a week later) all thst is left
is a writhing ass of larvae on the bottom board about 4 inches
deep and the whole hive slimed. I see very few mature SHB
on inspections. Looking for a spot to place a box with a new
removal colony in it. I realized that the one open spot in a 6
box stand is where each of the losses were located. I admit they
were no the strongest colonies, but the speed of destruction is
mind-blowing.
1... Be sure the hive is in full sun all day.
2... Give the bees only enough space that they are covering 95% of the frames.
I feel your pain. Been there. Iddee has given excellent advice.
Good Luck,
Steve
Don't transfer honey from your cut outs. If needed you can crush/strain and feed it back to them. This gives the stressed bees less to defend.
Scott