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One of the most important things to remember about catching a swarm is that NO SWARM is worth putting yourself at risk. Never climb high up to get a swarm or get in any position in which you could get seriously injured or killed. We want to see you at the next meeting to talk about bees.
I recommend everyone try catching a swarm sometime. It is a lot of fun and you will learn a lot about bees as well as yourself.
Here are some photos and descriptions of a swarm I encountered in June 2005. Anyone else with swarm photos please contact me and I will get them on the site with credit to you.
Swarms are all different. Lets start with an easy one.
Spray Cluster with sugar water
Swarm Cluster
Shake cluster into hive body
The cluster may take several shakes
Notice Cluster did not fly
They are examining somewhat familiar surroundings
Be patient while they spread out
You may have to make a little room for them
Ease the frame back in
Notice the frame has almost settled to bottom
Put inner cover on
Put Outer cover on
Bees already fanning pheromone to welcome stragglers to new home
Note: To get the bees to accept this new home, I placed a frame of capped brood young larvae and eggs in the hive body. This attracts the bees to care for this unattended frame of young bees.
