Bee Removal Adventure in Las Vegas: Gwen’s Tree Tale
Ah, the joys of bee removal—especially when it involves a picturesque setting like Gwen's sprawling ten-acre property here in Las Vegas!
This time, our adventure led us to an outdoor tree where a lively swarm had decided to set up shop. As summer waned and autumn settled in, the bees had chosen a tall tree branch by the side of Gwen's house as their new home.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the charming sight of a beehive hanging ten feet above the ground, nestled snugly among the tree branches. The bees had constructed their honeycombs with remarkable skill, weaving them intricately into the branches.
Given the season and the growing shortage of resources, their choice of residence seemed a bit of a mystery. Nevertheless, our task was clear: carefully remove the hive while ensuring the bees' safety and well-being.
Betsy took the lead with the vacuum—a crucial tool in our bee removal kit. The vacuum allowed us to gently collect the bees without causing harm. We needed to cut around the tree limb to remove the honeycomb, and this was no easy feat. The honeycombs were awkwardly attached to the branches, making the removal process delicate and intricate.
Cutting honeycomb with bees still around is an art in itself. The risk of cutting a bee with a knife is real, so we proceeded with caution. The goal was to minimize harm to the bees while removing the comb in manageable pieces.
Our no-kill approach requires patience and precision, and this task was no exception. For nearly an hour, we continued the process—vacuuming, cutting, and carefully handling the combs. Our efforts were rewarded when we managed to secure the honeycombs in a five-frame bee nuc box.
Once the combs were safely housed, we turned our attention to cleaning up the tree. We scraped off the remaining honeycomb and applied a honey bandit to the branches. This strategic move was designed to deter any wandering bees from returning to their old spot.
As we observed the bees, it was clear they were settling into their new home. They began marching into the box with purpose, while others fanned in front of the hive entrance, guiding their fellow bees inside.
It was a reassuring sight, knowing that the queen was among them and that they were adjusting well to their new environment. Our friend Dave kindly marked the queen for us, an essential step in tracking her and ensuring the hive’s stability.
With autumn temperatures dropping, we were keen to provide a comfortable and warm environment for our new bee colony. The insulated bee box was perfect for keeping them cozy during the cooler nights.
However, to ensure their survival through the winter, we planned to add an in-hive sugar-water feeder. This feeder would need regular refilling to supplement the bees’ food supply, especially since their comb contained minimal honey and pollen.
To further support their nutrition, we would also provide homemade pollen patties periodically throughout the winter. This added treat would help sustain them until spring, when the nectar flow would start anew, and natural food sources would become plentiful again.
It's always a bit challenging for bees to swarm in late autumn. The dwindling resources make it tough for them to build up adequate supplies for winter. In a city as vibrant as Las Vegas, it’s surprising that these bees hadn’t found more suitable resources before making their move.
Despite the challenges, these honeybees were remarkably well-behaved throughout the entire removal process. Their gentle nature made our task easier and more enjoyable. However, we noticed a shift in their demeanor—today, they were a bit feistier than before. Nevertheless, their spirited energy is part of their charm.
We placed the hive under our porch, where it would benefit from the afternoon sun. This exposure would help warm the hive box before dusk, and the location offered a clear flight path for the bees.
In conclusion, while the autumn swarming presented its own set of challenges, we were thrilled to offer these bees a new home and keep them safe through the colder months. Here’s to a successful and nurturing winter for Gwen’s bees, and to many more beekeeping adventures ahead!
Happy Beekeeping,
Betsy and Pete
Las Vegas, Nevada
About Us: The Authors
We're Betsy and Pete, passionate Las Vegas beekeepers trained by a master in the field. With hundreds of successful bee and bee swarm removals under our belts, we're not just experts; we're enthusiasts committed to the well-being of these incredible pollinators.
We manage dozens of beehives, both natural and honey-bearing at our Joshua Tree Preserve.
Our Commitment to Excellence
We believe education is an ongoing journey, especially in a field as dynamic as beekeeping. That's why we're continually updating our knowledge base, collaborating with other experts, and staying up to date with the latest advancements in bee control methods and beekeeping practices.
We also provide top-tier beekeeping supplies, offering everything a beekeeper needs, from beginners to experts.
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