Pretty weekend for a Bee dive

I have heard from many of you today after your weekend (or at least 1 day) of hive diving.  I think what we are discovering is that the winter may have been harder than we felt it was.  I have gotten lots of reports of more loses than expected.  I for one had an unsuspected loss with probably forty pounds of honey in place on the hive.  They just didn't have the resources to reach the food source.  It can be frustrating. 

On the other hand I have had at least six calls this winter and spring from people with bee trees on their property.  This indicates an increasing feral bee population that indicates strength within the bee community. All of that is a good thing for the future.  For the new folks, this hobby or business should be given the time any other livestock operation is given.  When you pay attention to the details the details pay.  

Check out the facebook page for more discussion on feeding and management.