Bees swarm mainly because they've run out of room in the hive. So they make a new queen and she goes out and has a mating flight, and then establishes a new hive. Hobbiests (sp?) sometimes use this natural inclination to build new hives. It's actually better for the hives if you give them room to grow and if need be, split the hives later so you have two stronger hives, rather than two weak ones that could die. And there are LOTS of ways to discourage swarming without hurting the queen. You will almost certainly have to kill DEVELOPING queens, I don't know how people feel about bee abortions.
Hmmmmm.... I've learned much through this thread. I'm glad people who actually work with bees stepped up and offered a view from the inside. I'm also glad if it's not as bad as I've read.
No, of course not only me! Yeah, she's adamant... but it's not only her. Mr. Bee is the same way, as are the 2 other bee-keepers I know. love, mom
great, a bee cult. she's getting in my face trying to get me to change. yep an OMNI being evangelical.