I went just to watch and saw about twenty fanning away at the entrance, since they are just getting a good rebound from requeening I figure, it is hot today, around 90 in the shade. So I go around and slide open the the bottom board. Well I guess that was too close as a couple started to let me know that I needed to get away. I left in a semi hurry and had one girl follow me about 75 feet. I wonder if it is just the temperature or could these be new girls that aren't used to me? I have been looking in, changing syrup, even opened inner cover a few times. Or is it that they were weak before and now they are strong/stronger?
There's a ton of reasons the girls get agitated. I learned the hard way about lightening and the static electricity it puts off, or least that's what I was told it was.
Going into a hive without smoke is asking to be stung. I laugh every time I read about someone doing it.
Did you open the lid towards you?
Open it away from you. They get startled and attack. When you open it away from you, you may see one come flying out fast. If there is nothing in that direction, they settle down and go home and live another day.
Jim
I didn't open the lid. I pulled the bottom board open to let some air circulate a little better. I made one of those ipm boards.