9/13/09 – Welcome to ManTown!
I’ve been keeping an eye on the hive without opening it up, and the number of bees coming and going has been pretty minimal, as expected.
When looking at the hive entrance, it’s obvious that there’s not much traffic, as typically when you look in the front door, you see a line of bees getting ready to go, or checking on the bees coming in to make sure they are welcome in the hive. Another hint that all was still not well was evident by watching the incoming bees, which are very dark, compared to the much lighter tints of the younger bees – so my workers are a bit long in the tooth!
Anyway, I wanted to open up the hive to check on the bees, and upon opening the hive was pretty surprised to see so many bees. In addition, the bees were a little ‘crazier’ than usual – flying all over the place, and very loud – yet another clue, as the drones are a bit louder than the worker bees.
I took a few frames out and inspected them, and, while there is still nectar and pollen, I’d guess we’re about 90% drones to 10% workers right now – not a great mix if you’re bee keeper – though perhaps attractive if you’re a queen looking for a date!
I’m going to query the pros to see what the best course of action is, as while the laying worker is still laying eggs (unfertilized drones), the lack of worker bees to take care of the drone young will lead to malnourished larvae and young, and might get a bit ugly towards the end.
ManTown
One of the cool things about the drones is that they don’t sting. Thus, you can have some fun with them – holding them, showing them off, putting them in your mouth – you know, the usual stuff. Here’s one of our male friends, with no abililty to put a good hurtin’ on anyone.
Mr. Drone
