This morning I went out to check on the hive. I had thought that the amount of food I put out yesterday would last them for a few days. NOPE. It was all gone. I needed to refill it.
The video I watched suggested using a turkey baster to refill the feeding dish. I didn't have that, so I used a condiment squeeze bottle. I got all dolled up in my gear and opened the hive. They were definitely more active, maybe even a little agitated, by me moving things around. But as soon as I got the honey water in there, they started eating. I did not even try to check on the queen, there was a large clump of bees around her cage so I am guessing she's still in there. I did see a bee working on the little candy plug in her cage.
What I don't know is, how long until they are able to forage for their own food?
The video I watched suggested using a turkey baster to refill the feeding dish. I didn't have that, so I used a condiment squeeze bottle. I got all dolled up in my gear and opened the hive. They were definitely more active, maybe even a little agitated, by me moving things around. But as soon as I got the honey water in there, they started eating. I did not even try to check on the queen, there was a large clump of bees around her cage so I am guessing she's still in there. I did see a bee working on the little candy plug in her cage.
What I don't know is, how long until they are able to forage for their own food?
I'm actually surprised you don't have a turkey baster.
ReplyDeleteAs soon as it's above 60 degrees and not raining they will forage! Watch for their full pollen baskets as they return to the hive tomorrow :)
ReplyDelete*above 50/55 degrees
ReplyDelete