How often is too often to inspect?

[johnwm73]

I am a first year beekeeper and was wondering how often is too foten to inspect my 2 hives? I don't pull out every frame when I do inspect. Should I or should I not do that? Also I like just opening them up to watch the bees work and look at the outter frames to see if it is time to add a second hive body. I started with 5 frame nucs and I got them on 4/18/08. Is it fine to open the cover and watch them work?

[Cindi]

Johnwm73.  My personal opinion and you will hear others.  During the first year(s) of beekeeping I have no hesitation of looking at the colonies as often as I want.  I know that when we get in too deep it may set them back a little bit.  BUT....the most important aspect to me is that I get to know the bees really well.  And that means to get in with them lots.  The more you understand about what is going on with the bees, the easier it is for you to get a great handle on them. Even if it may mean to set them back a little bit.  That setting back will pay off in the long run, you will know the bees.  Getting in the hive sets them only back a little bit and it also depends on what you are doing.  My two cents, go in and look around as much as you want, you need to be a good beekeeper and this will help you out far more than any book.  Have that most beautiful and wonderful day, groove on the bees.  Cindi

[JP]

Ditto to what Cindi said. Check them out often, not just the outside frames. You want to see what eggs look like, brood, uncapped honey, capped honey, try and find the queen, examine the bees around the queen they will form a circle, take note of these things, and put them to memory. Do this now while your hives are small and more easily manageable. Learn, learn, learn and have fun.


...JP

[derrick1p1]

I think you should look, look, look and look some more.  It is the only true way to learn and I wish I had done more observing last year.  I've read alot in the past several months, but feel I've learned more in the past 6 weeks by observing more than I have in the past year of reading.  To become a good beekeeper, you have to also remember to enjoy them.  I worried WAY too much last year (that I'd do something wrong).  When I realized that although I might have some "influence" on them (not sure if that is the correct word),they will still do their own thing despite me, I relaxed and have begun to really enjoy them.  I so appreciate them letting me take a peak into their world!

Best,
Derrick