after a dry spell, got four swarm calls the past two days.. oh yeah, its starting to crank back up I hope! They seem to be triggered by large rain events?
Caught this one Tuesday. Would have turned it down, because our summer dearth has started and I HATE feeding, but the HO was willing to pay a buck and a quarter for me to come get it. Maybe 2 1/2 - 3 lbs. Acted like it was an afterswarm with multiple queens.
(http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj72/DSemple/Bees%202011/Bees%202012/Jack%20and%20Barb%20S/6e1c49aa.jpg)
I think July swarms here are from extra virgin supercedure queens not wanting to fight it out and bailing. I Would like to know what others think causes late swarms during a period with no active flow?
Don
Second round of swarms just started here as well...gotten 3 in 4 days. Our first round is at the beginning of a major flow (spring) and then again after the flow when the hives are all fat with honey. After this there should be just the odd swarm here and there until the fall flow of Brazillian pepper.
Scott
I'm jealous.... haven't seen ANY this year!
...DOUG
KD4MOJ
Caught two this past week. Another is currently scouting out a law office I just checked out and will be returning to with a swarm trap. Caught another today in the Whole Foods Parking lot in Metairie. Will be returning tonight to pick them up.
...JP