Surprise Inspection

During the initial inspection of the hive, Doris was especially good at hiding from us. So we relaxed, had a nice visit with Scott, rode a dirt bike a little bit, then went back in for a surprise inspection. We got good look at her the second time. She is doing an excellent job. John got a chance to meet her then, too.

Here, Scott is checking the weight of a full brood frame. They are noticeably heavy compared to the empty frames.

Kyson is helping us look for Doris.

Full frames of bees are so much fun to look at. The brood is all in really good condition. No signs of deformed wings. I didn't see any mites hanging on bees. There were no mites on the bottom board. We are still looking good. I hope this continues through the summer.

The workers managed to build some burr comb to stick the inner cover down tight. I took the hint and promised not to open the hive again during any rains.

I pulled the small feeder and left two quarts of sugar syrup. The new front porch fit perfectly. I hope that slatted rack spacer serves them well. Perhaps, Doris might even fill in those empty corners now they are further from the door.

A half dozen or so bees did end up squished by that pollen patty a few days ago. Not too many, but it was sad and unnecessary considering there were no storms the next day. We had some light showers that were not even close to what was in the forecast Thursday.

They have collected a complete frame of stored nectar. In combination with the syrup and patty I have provided, that will be enough to get them through much of the summer rains.

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