OK I am offically getting anssey.

[divemaster1963]

The bees are fling and the weather is crazy. :idunno:

I am wondering with all that is going on with the temps when should I start getting ready to do my splits here in Georgia? I have found a new hive in the base of a old oak tree near the river. when should I setup my trap to catch a swarm from this hive before doing a trapout. I am trying for a two forone deal on this hive. they are very docile. Watched them for a hour coming and going with loads of pollen on their legs. The lilies and daffodils are blooming and the cherry trees are starting to get buds. I was thinking that the end of Feb. was the best time to get started but this weather is got me pulling what is left of my hair out. any help or suggestions out there would be great.

Maybe we need to start a blooming map for each year so we don't lose out on optimum timing for working our Lady's.

john.

[sc-bee]

Unless you have queens coming---- no splits without drones. Need drones for mating.  In my area drone brood is usually first or second week of March. If you have queens to put in split-- base it on the population of the bees.

Bees in log ----- my swarm season usually begins 1st week of April. Last year I had early swarm in last week of March. Again they need drones to mate.

[BMAC]

John I play with my bees about 2 hours south of you.  I spoke with one of my cell producers 2 days ago and he told me he is seeing ample drones.  He is setting up his cell  builders this week and going to start grafting next week.  I can wait till mid feb so I can go and make a couple new yards.

[divemaster1963]

John I play with my bees about 2 hours south of you.  I spoke with one of my cell producers 2 days ago and he told me he is seeing ample drones.  He is setting up his cell  builders this week and going to start grafting next week.  I can wait till mid feb so I can go and make a couple new yards.

so you winter your bees in Ga. ? I have noticed that the wild hive is very active. I"m thinking of putting out a baited swarm box out by the tree ( within 100 feet ) to see if they maybe thinking about splitting. I can't cut the tree down. they are in the root base of it and the company doesn't really want to do that. one older guy wanted to cut a wedge out to get to the hive. but I think that is not a good idea. he said that would give him access and that he could make the cut into a plug for the hole. I want to use it as a source of repeated collection site for hives. their personality is the trait that I want.

john