Plain Talk: Learning Points (199)

In this episode, Jim reflects on some key learning points from his years of beekeeping-particularly the lessons learned the hard way. He shares a story of purchasing bees from a grieving widow and the valuable, though painful, takeaways from transporting those colonies. Jim emphasizes the importance of not relying on propolis to hold hive components together and discusses the risks of overheating colonies during transport. With his characteristically warm wit and experience, Jim offers beekeepers valuable insights into avoiding common mistakes and managing bees in tricky situations.
Whether you're a new beekeeper or a seasoned pro, this episode is filled with wisdom worth considering. Listen today!
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Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Feeding your bees is a breeze with the Bee Smart Designs Ultimate Direct Feeder! By placing it on top of your uppermost box with a medium hive body around it, you can feed your bees directly while minimizing the risk of robbing. Plus, for a limited time, if you order a Bee Smart Designs Direct Feeder, you'll receive a free sample of HiveAlive and a coupon for future discounts with your new feeder! HiveAlive supplements, made from seaweed, thyme, and lemongrass, help your colonies thrive, boost honey production, reduce overwinter mortality, and improve bee gut health. Visit betterbee.com/feeder to get your new feeder and free HiveAlive sample today!
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Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast.
Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott
Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics)
Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

[@rtxhoneybees]

I did this, but in summer. I plugged the entrance with mattress foam thinking my screened bottom board would be enough ventilation. I had a friend helping me the night before the move to load the bees into the truck. After they were strapped with crossing ratchet straps, I realized I had forgotten to take out the slide in tray that blocked the bottom screen. I told my friend (who didn't own a single bee) what I had done, he said "it'll be alright" and we loaded the bees. The next morning, I drove about an hour and a half, arriving just after daylight. After unloading I removed the foam and realized what I had done. After hearing your story I am thinking they may have died the night before. Subsequent moves of large colonies have been done with the bottom screen open and a screened top panel made just for the purpose. For future moves, I would probably have tried moving them closed up at 50F and below - had I not just heard this. I certainly won't now. Thank you for sharing. You likely saved bees and me some disappointment.

[@gunlinebees.3831]

Phillip! Why haven't you told us about this gentleman??? You've kept this to yourself we see... If he's willing we've gotta get him on Sunday Fellowship.

[@finiscary9689]

Great story, I found out the hard way (I had Bee fever also!!) don’t move bees at night with a flash light!! About 1985 young and I wanted my bees I just payed the man for Home. LOL

[@angelawoodring962]

I'm so sorry for laughing 😂😂😂😂😂