Re-orienting a hive that was moved, how long?

[Poppi]

Quick question!!   I had to move a hive.  Only about 6 feet.  Waited until almost dark and I put some twigs, branches, grass...  to force the bees to re-orient to the hive.  All is well, but how long do I need to leave the "stuff" in front of the hive entrance.  They are coming and going just fine.

Thanks, John

[JP]

If all seems well I would give it another day just to be on the safe side.


...JP

[FRAMEshift]

You would want to leave it until all the foragers existing at the time the hive was moved have had time to leave and return to the hive.  One day should be enough.  Two days would certainly be enough.

If any bees get lost they will just join another hive so no great damage will be done anyway.  You just don't want to lose all your foragers at once.

[Poppi]

JP, FRAMEshift,   thanks...   I'll remove the stuff tomorrow evening...  I was watchin' today and lots of activity...  they're coming and going from the new location...    John