Setting a wild honeybee trapline

As I mentioned in my last post, I have scouted out several prime locations to place swarm traps to catch wild bees all up and down my side of the Shenandoah Valley. The bees that most beginning beekeepers buy don't satisfy my preference for wildness. Bees that take care of themselves for generations without domestication have instincts and immune systems that make them survivors. Part of my philosophy is that human control under the commercial/industrial model often leads to sickness and death of the livestock. Through many conversations and exploring the wild countryside, I have met some fantastic bees!

No sooner did I publish my intentions Saturday morning than I coughed a few times and sprained my back. I have had a trick back for half my life now, and it is awfully inconvenient when you have plans to get work done and all of a sudden you can't stand up straight. I made the most of it- I just got all the tractor work taken care of instead. It turned out to be the perfect time, because it rained ever since.

Today I was still miserable enough to go to a chiropractor. That got me loosened up enough to walk upright, and after 400 mg of ibuprofen and an ice bag, I was ready to finally set up my bait hives! I really have been grumpy this weekend, and found it necessary to apologize to my family every time I opened my mouth. A bit of movement and fresh air seemed to help my mentality.

The little towns I pass through are much the same as they were 50 years ago, just older and more industrial. There are so many old farmhouses and barns and log cabins and churches and dry goods stores all boarded up and haunted. I just want them all.

The bees that live in this wall have been there since the 60's at least. I hope to catch more than a few of their daughter colonies to form a strong basis for my stock. I had heard of this legendary colony through the grapevine for years, and finally started knocking on doors this winter. So far I have met no uncooperative property owners and the whole adventure has been very positive.

This tree is a possible hive, though I have not seen flying bees yet. It is only 1/2 mile from the colony in the house wall. The majestic pastoral view above is seen from this hollow tree.

I put two frames of wax comb in each bait hive so the new queen will be able to lay immediately upon moving in. Scout bees prefer hives with comb. I also put essential oil of lemongrass on the entrance- this mimics the scent bees emit to tell each other "home is this way! Come on in!" Scouts also prefer homes with south-facing entrances, and that are off the ground 8-10 feet. I get this information from Tom Seely's book "Honeybee Democracy". After scouts find suitable new homes, they return to the swarm and make a report. The decision is finalized and the swarm mobilizes together after they all come to the best conclusion unanimously and peacefully. i think we should all take notes!

The greatest swarm I have ever caught was in a little holler called Runions Creek. I hope to capture more of the sister swarms at the same location. The picture above and the picture below are from this spot in Runions Creek. Many trickling streams of pure spring water come out of the ground there. I also harvested a quart of cress leaves to add to our supper this evening. I know how blessed I am.

Hopefully soon I will have pictures of swarms and active colonies to share with you, and more treasures to report!