Dorchester and Weymouth Bee Keepers Association

It may seem premature to be talking of swarms when some of us have only managed a couple of full inspections but things can change very rapidly.

If you do see a swarm then do not ring our Bee Inspector. Instead check out the BBKA web site. On there you will find links to help you identify a swarm and a map to show you all the local swarm collectors.

For those of you who have not come across a swarm before here are some useful points:

• Beekeepers only collect honey bees.
  • We do not deal with wasps
  • We do not deal with bumble bees.
• A swarm can appear as a terrifying invasion - it is not.
  • The bees are looking for a new home - not a new victim!
  • The bees are looking after their queen.
  • When they have found a new home they will fly off there.
  • I have collected many swarms and I never been stung whilst swarm collecting.
  • Our ideal swarm is hanging from a branch within easy reach.
  • Our most difficult are those in cavity walls - high up!
  • Most swarms will move on within a few hours - as soon as they have found a better location.
  • Once we have collected a swarm we will place it in one of our hives.

As we eagerly anticipate the new season it is a time to be looking at what equipment we have, what we need and what we do not need.

A couple of our members have done exactly that and there are additions to the For Sale page. Whether you are a beginner looking to buy you first hive or an established beekeeper preparing for a bumper season there may be something there for you. Check it out.

I recently suggested that now was not the time to be opening hives. Well winter is expected to make a return this weekend so now is not the time to be disturbing them.

Instead take a look at the beekeeping courses the BBKA are offering this year. They have plenty on offer. Also worth having a look at their special booklets which are here. I was fortunate to receive several of them for Christmas and am working my way through them steadily. They are well worth it.

Watch this space for more interesting things to do over the winter. (That is "more things" not "more interesting".)