Was removing my supers today on all of my 5 hives. When I was some distance away from hives i noticed queen on one of the supers. I ran back over to hive and tried to get her back in but she flew away. Does anyone have suggestions on what I can do if anything? I am a dangerous newbie with only 2 years of beekeeping.
If you stood there for 3 or 4 minutes, she returned to the hive. She oriented on you when she flew. Check for eggs after 4 days and you will know for sure.
Thanks for the reply. That makes me feel much better. Worst case, if she did not, is the hive lost?
If no eggs in 4 to 6 days, I would combine and split in the spring.
Ok. Pretty cut and dry. Thank you so much for the info. Crazy thing is that it was my best hive....go figure.
is it too late to add a new queen this time of year in Atlanta?
I us ed to live there and it doesn't get cold until January.
Quote from: jvalentour on October 31, 2017, 09:10:24 PM
is it too late to add a new queen this time of year in Atlanta?
I us ed to live there and it doesn't get cold until January.
Not if it is mated.
Here in NL, I still had drones as of a week ago. Probably all gone now.
Jim
Pretty sure all Drones have been given the boot.
On more than one occasion I've seen a queen fly off. Then later when I would check the hive I'd see her. Of course that works the other way 'round as well.
Quote from: AtlantaBeek on October 31, 2017, 07:33:31 PM
Was removing my supers today on all of my 5 hives. When I was some distance away from hives i noticed queen on one of the supers. I ran back over to hive and tried to get her back in but she flew away. Does anyone have suggestions on what I can do if anything? I am a dangerous newbie with only 2 years of beekeeping.
Like IDDEE said chances are good she made it back to parent hive. As stated in few days check brood status.
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For next time: http://www.bushfarms.com/beesqueenflying.htm
FOLLOW UP:: Opened hive 4 days later. All bees (except for maybe a hundred workers) were gone! Verry small amount of capped brood, honey and pollen remained in two deeps. No sign of wax moths, small amount of hive beetles ( less than 20). All comb looked in really good shape. Oh well..... Have 4 other hives that are really strong.
Atlanta, so sorry for the outcome. WE all hate a lost hive(s) and know the unpleasant feelings. Thank you for the update although I was hoping for a different story. Four other hives is good news, makes me glad you have hives to split for 2018.
Blessings