8/26/12

They are quite active today. The sugar/H2O mix is way down. Some of them seem to be covering themselves in it. Watched them for awhile and they seemed to be cleaning each other off outside the opening. Look close and wetness can be noticed on their wings and backs. The all seem to be doing good. Going to check the hive on Thursday or Friday to see if there is any improvement. By the looks of things - there is.

Next Day.

Went to the store and bought a top feeder & pollen. Made pollen patties and made the sugar/H2O syrup. Let's hope this helps.

Checking Hive!

Checked the hive on Thursday. Was hoping to put the next super on. No way! There was nothing left in the hive, but the bees. Astonished and worried. Looked up on internet, read books and figured they were still not getting enough pollen or nectar from the few flowers growing in the yard. 

Collecting Pollen.

They love these purple flowers. Tons of pollen all over their legs and torso.

Bees!

They were busy today!

It's been a few..

Life has gotten hectic but only for a moment. Going back to normal here in a few. I have checked on the bees everyday. Needing to get out there with my good camera. I see them all the time while outside. We have finally gotten some rain and things are growing again. Thank goodness. They are keeping busy. While sitting out watching them - it's a busy freeway - in and out of the hive. Let you know in a couple of weeks how things are going.

Moving the bees!

The bees were moved into their new hive last Wednesday. They are doing fine! I see them every morning I go out for my walk.

Beehive Making! Part 2

Beehive Making!

Beehive.

The bees arrived here in what is called a Nuc colony. Smaller box - 5 frames. It was buzzing! Poor guys couldn't get out and see where they were going. They have adjusted well to being here. Within the first day they were eating away at the corn syrup that was given to them until they adjusted and found some food source of their own. Within 2 days, they were in my garden enjoying my zucchini and yellow squash flowers. They haven't gone for the watermelon or canteloupe flowers. 3rd day I saw one in the garage. Quite a ways away from the nuc, but they travel up to 3 miles away for food so they were starting to spread. I was out there every morning taking photos and the guards would always watch me because I was pretty close, but being docile, they never bothered me.
Need to get them into an actual hive, though. Found a local supplier. The hive (super) is actually very easy to put together. I've put together a tutorial with photos. Enjoy my next few blog posts on how to put a "super" together.

New Family Members..

New family members arrived last week. They are gentle and sweet. I've had a few land on my hand and just sit for a spell. Not close to the hive either - all the way up by the house. They are Italian Bees. The queen is very docile, not hostile. Thank you to Mr. - who brought them here and they were originally a part of his colony. As I learn more about them, I will be letting ya'll know.