So you’re saying it’s impossible to do a split on my own property and make 2 hives from one- correct?
If say the host hive is on a hilltop and the split hive is 50-75ft below it down the hill… (The bees will just return to where they are used to?)
For what it’s worth, I’ve split hives right next to one another successfully.
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All my splits have been anywhere from 20ft away to right next to the parent hive, no issues.
Edit: I should add that I always use @Michael_Bush’s tip to put branches in front of the split entrance so exiting foragers have to reorient before leaving. I’ve also used a large piece of cardboard draped over the front and held in place by a brick on top when wind knocks the branches down.
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Such excellent advise. I’ll remeber this one. Thanks!
It’s not impossible, I used to do it all the time until I came to grief with hive beetles. This is why I mentioned hive beetles.
If it’s not possible for you to take the split far away, you can try the branches trick, or cardboard, then hope that not too many bees return to the parent hive.
See, the idea is to remove the colony’s urge to swarm. Removing as many bees as possible can achieve that, along with my other strategy I outlined. If some bees return, it’s defeating the purpose.
Taking them away, for me is the simplest solution. You’ve just got to work out what’s the simplest solution for you, so as to achieve the most favorable outcome.
I notice now that @CGAnderson has a third swarm to deal with.
So important to be wary of those blasted beetles! I’ve been lucky not to have any major grief so far.
Just saw CG’s post too…
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