The package is opened
After hanging the queen cage, we jostle, as gently as possible, the bees into the opened hive. They fall out in great clumps and masses but seem calm nonetheless.
The bees in their new home
After most bees are in the hive, we replace the top bars and let them orient themselves to their new world. They will mark this location in their collective conscienceness and always return here, despite foraging up to four miles away.
Two entrances plugged with grass, the main entrance already guarded
Even now, moments after their disorderly arrival, the bees begin their ceaseless working. We hold our breath and are greeted by the softest humming sound - a gentle whirring that could lull even a seasoned insomniac to dreams. The bees are buzzing - vibrating their wings like thousands of hummingbirds - to circulate the queen's pheromones throughout their new home which gives each individual her place in the colony. The work will end only when she -the worker -is worked to death - about 30 days. By the time these workers die, the queen will have (hopefully) mated, laid new workers, and the hive will be well on its way to permanent establishment.
wow, it's really interesting to read about all this bee stuff. Four miles is pretty impressive and it's something I've always wondered about. I'll expect a little jar in the mail when they start producing some honey =)
ReplyDeleteHaha... hopefully I'll get some honey this year! I'm not sure they typically go four miles, but I know they can. In fact, they can go even further than that. It really is a fascinating learning experience. I was telling Kara last night that she can start her own hive within the next few years - now, how many kids can say that?! :)
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on getting your girls installed! Your blog is lovely!! Your view of Montana is something I dream of...
ReplyDeleteKeep posting!!
way to go anna.. you are on your way now!
ReplyDeleteanna, you are so country! you just love living in the country and doing country things. i love it! Look forward to your blogposts!
ReplyDeleteMan! My Aunt Sarah has some calm nerves! I definately could not do that. I think I'll stick with plants.
ReplyDelete-Madi