Natural Beekeeping International Forum

[charentejohn]

This is a brief description of what happened with photos.
First 4 photos are state of old bird box they had for many years, starting to rot. Next is what it looked like when the bit of plastic was removed, the base had disappeared and they used to cover the comb at night for warmth.
Next is the repair piece, not pretty bjt it worked, last is bees on a hot day. Note the large piece of cardboard on a stick used to shade from afternoon sun



Next is a load of bees, I didn't see it but I am sure these swarmed and left.


Next are photos of the modified TBH showing the new entry hole from box to TBH and the various bars etc to hold the old box, v heavy. Polystyrene top insulation, old box screwd in place.


TBH 'bars' with beeswax melted into them (they can put comb where they like), views of hive and heath robinson attachment. Last one of entry with some of the girls wandering about.


Showing old wine box as temp refuge during the move, note number of bees bearding as a hot day, all went inside at night and were moved to TBH location. There were two cycled round each night, move one to the TBH and replace with another for next day.
Stopped doing this after 4 days as all got the message about the move.
More of hive and box and girls using the TBH. Also the sugar water dispenser which can be leant against TBH or nearby trees. Done occasionally only about 30% full to encourage comb building.


Their new home, before old box fitted. Other TBH removed now, SW facing and shaded during the afternoon sun, early moring sun until about noon. In winter there will be no leaves on the trees and lower sunlight so some warmth.


All done and dusted, thanks to this forum and a friend I haven't seen for ages who also advised me. Couldn't have done it without you.