Honeybees in the News

Please click here for an interesting article about lessons that may be learned from Africa on how to build resilient bee colonies

BBKA Spring Convention Cancelled

We have been informed that the BBKA 2020 Spring Convention - scheduled to take place at Harper Adams University 3-5 April - has been cancelled.   The Spring Convention Committee and the BBKA Executive Committee reviewed the situation over the weekend and took the decision to cancel. 

The aim is to minimise the risk of COVID19 among participants, traders, staff of BBKA and staff and students of Harper Adams.

 A full refund will be made for all bookings made via the BBKA.

Training Update

Both the 2020 Novice course and the 2020 BBKA Basic Assessment training commenced this month. 
See Training for more information.

We look forward to welcoming the Novices at future social meetings and apiary sessions.

Tasks for March

March weather is very changeable, but a number of tasks and checks are needed in preparation for the coming season.

Firstly, when it is warm enough for a quick inspection which will not chill our colonies (at least 10°C), check:

• Is there sufficient food? 
  If not, feed with pollen and/or fondant
  
• How many frames are filled with bees?
  Check for Nosema if colony is weak
  
• Is the Queen laying?
  
• Remove any dead colonies and investigate cause
  Sterilise hives as necessary

 

When the weather improves (say 14°C):

• Carry out a detailed inspection for diseases and varroa levels.
  Take all necessary remedial action before the honey flow begins
  
• Replace older dark combs
   
• Look out for swarm cells and ensure the colony has sufficient room

At any time:

• Prepare hive record cards for coming season

• Remove mouse guards
  
• Prepare clean brood boxes and frames with foundation

Above all - look forward to spending time with your bees !