Transferring from nuc to new hive?

[ddbarnhizer]

What is the best way to transfer bees from a nuc to a full-size hive?

My wife picked up a loose swarm last week just before heading off to her 10 day vacation. We hived the swarm in a spare nuc while I ordered a new hive to house them. My specific concerns are:

1. What time of day is best to transfer them? Early evening when most of the workers are back, or during the day?

2. As long as the new hive body goes in the same place as the nuc, will the bees return to it?

3. I'm going to transfer the 5 frames from the nuc to the new hive, but should they be placed in the center of the hive or off to one of the sides?

Thanks for any help,
Dan

[Keith13]

1. I did mine early morning 7 8 am

2. Yes mine did

3. I put mine in the center so that they can start building out in both directions

Keith

[ddbarnhizer]

1. I did mine early morning 7 8 am

2. Yes mine did

3. I put mine in the center so that they can start building out in both directions

Keith

Thanks! I hadn't thought about doing it in the morning -- at least that gives me 24 hours to get everything ready and set up.

[KONASDAD]

really doesnt make a difference. If you do it early, there may be more bees to contend with. Later in day foragers are out fewer bees to deal with. Just place in same location they will be fine either time of day. Just not night.

[johnnybigfish]

 Hey Dan,
I'm sure you'll have your answer soon...But what amazes me is........
Your wife went out and caught a swarm without you?
She is COOOOLLL!!!!

your friend,
john