Sherillynn's Notizen, 29 Jun 11

Yesterday was quite an adventure. I got a call to get a swarm of honeybees on Monday. When I went to check on their lovation, it became apparent taht it would take longer than the allotted time that I had so I went back on Tuesday. The bees were located in berween the walls of an old pump house. The owners were a nice couple in their 30s that were very excited to learn about beekeeping. We had to take about 4 sections of clapboard off the outside wall. I found a nice large hive and was able to get them out (with assistance) and no one got stung. The home owners, Shannon and Aaron were all garbed up in my bee hats and were eager to learn all about beekeeping. I think they might even get their own hive equipment and start a hive in the spring.
The bees have been relocated to a spot on the South end of my garden. I'll be checking tomorrow to see if I got the queen. I see some activity in and out of the hive so I think they are adjusting well. I may try to post pictures at a later date. This was the first swarm I've actually extracted from a building that I had to "deconstruct" and hopefully the next call will be easier but it was interesting. Never a dull moment here in Iowa!