Of three hives, one of mine survived winter (expected one, not two collapses).
But the third hive is THRIVING — I even fortuitously got to watch a full swarm, from start to finish (unable to capture in time), about a month ago.
Already have two full supers; about to add a third (for, in total, five I.mediums tall).
I started my MAQS (formic acid) treatment 60 days ago, and will do again when the dearth sets in (another few weeks where I live -- the "hot season").
They're flying strong and flying hard. In addition to varroa destructor, et. al; while watching the hive recently, I noticed my first "murder hornet" -- HUGE -- and laughed that my mother purchased me a Bug-A-Salt™ for just such a purpose/defense.
Locked-and-loaded, ready for the next day/adventure. Buzz buzz.
Are you in Whatcom county, WA? and/or somewhere in BC? I ask only because those are the most prominent places in North America that I'm aware of having "murder hornets"
re: varroa treatment: What are your thoughts on claims (research out of Czechia and Florida) about using essential oils, especially thyme oil and peppermint, as a deterrent? Do you find you've had to change up your treatments to keep under control? Do you have a preferred way to measure varroa? IE: sugar vs alcohol test? We don't have a local beekeeper association and our extension office doesn't have the expertise, so I'm always looking to connect with other beekeepers, especially that might be in roughly the same area or state.
Last year was my first year and I ended up with two deadouts - about what I expected; it was a learning experience. Started this spring with four package. Have lost one hive for reasons unclear. First queen went missing after about a month. Had a laying worker situation, tried to requeen and wasn't successful. Meanwhile, just added a second super to my best hive and the other two are doing alright getting ready for winter too.
But the third hive is THRIVING — I even fortuitously got to watch a full swarm, from start to finish (unable to capture in time), about a month ago.
Already have two full supers; about to add a third (for, in total, five I.mediums tall).
I started my MAQS (formic acid) treatment 60 days ago, and will do again when the dearth sets in (another few weeks where I live -- the "hot season").
They're flying strong and flying hard. In addition to varroa destructor, et. al; while watching the hive recently, I noticed my first "murder hornet" -- HUGE -- and laughed that my mother purchased me a Bug-A-Salt™ for just such a purpose/defense.
Locked-and-loaded, ready for the next day/adventure. Buzz buzz.