requeening in winter, well sort of

[tlynn]

Hi,

We have a dwindling hive due to an unproductive queen and are going to replace her.  My wife is switching over a frame of brood from our strong hive today (low 80s and sunny) and is removing the old queen.  We're getting the new queen tomorrow night and plan to put her in Friday (predicted low 60s and sunny).  We would be doing that stuff tomorrow but a cold front is approaching and we expect dropping temps and storms all day Thursday.  So hopefully the hive being queenless for nearly 2 days won't be a big deal, as I don't think I can get around it with weather timing.

Friday will be much cooler, like highs in the lower 60s, maybe, and likely stiff winds from the NW.  Last requeen I just put her in between the top bars, but I want to place her more central to stay warmer.  Is this the right line of thinking?  If so, how do I put her in the middle?  Press one side of the cage into the comb?  She will have attendants and be in a plastic queen cage.  I envision getting in and out fast so they don't lose a lot of heat.  So any suggestions would be great.

Thanks all!

Tracy

[mudlake]

Sorry about laughing but, I would love some 50 or 60 degree. We have 15 degrees and 3 feet of snow. Good luck with your requeening. I make splits in the spring when it is 60 degrees. Again Best of Luck  Tony