Spring Inspection 2013

 The rather cold and drawn out start to this season is leading to a sporadic initial check this year, however, overall the results amongst the colonies are encouraging, particularly among the Nukes created from last season's surplus bees.

(Typical Apiary with MD hives and Nukes)

 Below, the healthy Nuke-colonies that have wintered well, and are looking strong to go into the 2013 season.

 Visible in the picture above is the Apistan treatment strip, which is proving effective in the ongoing campaign for Varroa control. Below, Robert transfers healthy Newc -colonies into full MD hives, in preparation for the Spring crop...

 Above - showing the various pieces of equipment required to transfer the Newc into a full MD hive; in the foreground are entrance blocks on a division board, in front of these are newly foundationed framed in the Brood Chamber, (see "Hive Maintenance" section for more on constructing new frames); also visible is a new roof and cover board, and the plastic Hive base leaning against the hive behind the Newc.