Natural Beekeeping International Forum

[rays]

In case this may be of help to any others facing a similar problem and demonstrating the particular ease and advantage in having holes for entrances, in this case.

I had opened the entrances in my empty top-bar hive in an attempt to attract a swarm. There have been a few visitors inspecting what’s on offer. A queen hornet was particularly attracted to the convenience of a weather proof cavity and had proceeded to set-up home for the summer, requiring immediate remedial action.

Early in the morning, and having ascertained her ladyship was "at home", I blocked all 3 entrance holes using 2 corks and a plastic bottle. Opened the bottom board of hive which covers the wire grill underneath and which seals the actual hive cavity, so no chance of her getting out that way! Next, filled the hive with lavender smoke, at which point she exited through her only available escape hole into the bottle. Carefully but quickly unscrew bottle from entrance hole. Cap on. Job done.



She hadn’t got too far in building her nest, thankfully.

[tickie]

great tip - very useful for a beginner - thanks!