[Derek]

Doing my first cutout soon. Don’t plan on doing to many, but since this is my brother in laws house I will do it. Cutout wise it looks to be easier than most. It’s a old wood shed, they are at eye level and behind the insulation is a heavy plastic sheet. They have been this barn for years. They finally moved to a location that is accessible to get them. I understand cutting the comb and using rubber bands to secure it. And if you get the queen you get the bees. Do you find the queen and cut and trim and secure the comb with her on it. Or do you find her and brush her into the hive. What’s the easiest way to accomplish getting and placing her in the hive.

 

[Iddee]

To answer your question, you place her in the hive as quickly as possible. It is also a good idea to have a queen excluder between the bottom board and the hive body, to keep her from leaving.

A hint on finding her....Cut the honey and empty comb first, leaving the brood comb in the center to take out last. She will run as you cut comb, but doesn't like open space, so will run toward center if you cut the perimeter comb first.

 

[Derek]

Thanks Iddee. Good tip on the excluder. I have a couple of old ones. If I do get the queen and I get done early in the day. Should I pack up and leave or remove the excluder and let the workers come back and move hive at dark.

 

[Iddee]

The workers can go through the excluder. Leave it on. Take them home after dark.

 

[Derek]

Sorry I knew that. (Excluder) That is what happens when you are in a hurry and don't reread what you typed. That is a great idea.

What I ment to say. Should I go ahead an pack up and go or what until all workers are back at dark. (which is answered)

Any other special tips or tricks I sould know? I will take my camera and take pics. Which I will post. Hoping for the best, but expecting the worst.

 

[Iddee]

Just take your time and think before acting. Each cut out is unique, so you just think each move through and all will be fine.