Beautiful day but cold outside, so I decided to update some info for our honeybee stuff.

I know many on here are conservationist and understand the importance of the honeybee, but some of you may not know what to do if you get a swarm or need a cutout/trapout done out of a tree or structure.

Here are a few things you can do:

1. Don't kill them or go redneck with gas. Hornets/yellow jackets - go for it. Honeybees are usually pretty docile in swarm mode. I most often shake a swarm with no protection, cup them in my hands, and just enjoy the process.

2. Call a beekeeper if you need help. Swarms are free bees for the BK and most are willing to come get them. Here is the DNR link for BK's in your area: http://www.in.gov/dnr/entomolo/5755.htm

Here is the Beekeepers of Indiana link: http://www.indianabeekeeper.com/
Scroll down to swarm/cutout link.

You will find people in your local area to come help.

3. Swarms are free service. Cutouts may cost and will usually need quite amount of time and resources. We charge per job as some are easy and some require great amount of time. You may ask: why not just kill them? A few reason not to: 1) It would be really hard to get wasp spray and kill the colony. You see where they are going in but have no idea where the comb is. You will kill some but not even touch the numbers. 2) an exterminator can kill them but you will leave behind the comb, honey, and rotting brood. This will ferment, burst, and invite ants and roaches which will feed on the dead colony. The honey comb will seep down the walls or ceiling and stain badly. The best is just to have them cutout, void space cleaned, and void space filled with fiberglass insulation to keep them from coming back. Yes, there will be some minor repairs, but in the long run it will be cheaper than replacing a whole section of ceiling or wall.

I know Throbak and John Scrifres on here are Beekeepers. I am sure they will take swarms if in your area - or know of someone who will.

If you are in Wayne/Randolph County give Luke, Brad, or me a call or message. We have a FB page dedicated to the information needed:
https://www.facebook.com/honeybeecutouts

thanks for the info. I understand honey bee populations are in decline. What are some of the leading theories as to why?

I will keep you in mind if need any bees removed/relocated to your hives.

Several theories but most look to the varroa mite as the cause of colony collapse. Some look to herbicides and others - big pollinator businesses spreading viruses.

I would guess all the above with varroa mite the leader. Nasty lil things.

My neighbor has honey bees...I see them in my yard all the time...Thinking about charging him rent for using my pollen

I started a hive last year and liked it a lot. I ordered 4 more for this year

Addictive. Went from 1 to 9 now. Last year had 21 at one point. Friend and I hope to keep 25+.

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