bee orgy?

Started by hoku, June 04, 2009, 03:41:31 AM

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hoku

I knew that would get your attention!

But really.....so I was checking on a new hive that is at week 3 of a trap out.  It was dusk, and there were bees covering the entire landing board.  They were not fanning or bearding, but seemed to be crawling all over each other, non-aggressively.  Some were even standing on top of each other for awhile.  They seemed to be mostly worker bees. 

I am a new-ish beekeeper and have never seen this before.  What are they doing?  Massage?  Bathing each other?  Anyone know?   
thanks, Wendy

livz2hunt

I'm no expert, but I believe these are worker bees that have just finished a days work and are hanging out for a little rest and relaxation before turning in for the night. :-D

iddee

Is the box too full for all of them to get inside? It sounds like normal bearding. They need more room. Add a box or remove that one and start another with fresh eggs and larva.
"Listen to the mustn'ts, child. Listen to the don'ts. Listen to the shouldn'ts, the impossibles, the won'ts. Listen to the never haves, then listen close to me . . . Anything can happen, child. Anything can be"

*Shel Silverstein*