The process for removing bees from honey boxes in a Warre hive involves using smoke to calm the bees, carefully removing the boxes at dusk, and allowing the bees to evacuate naturally. This method minimizes stress to the colony and ensures the safe retrieval of honey without harming the bees. The key steps include timing the removal during dusk, using minimal smoke, and placing the boxes a short distance from the hive to encourage bees to return home.
Key Points Explained:
-
Timing the Removal (Dusk)
- Bees are less active at dusk, making it easier to handle the hive without provoking defensive behavior.
- The natural reduction in foraging activity means fewer bees are outside the hive, simplifying the evacuation process.
-
Using Smoke
- A puff or two of smoke at the hive entrance calms the bees by masking alarm pheromones.
- Smoke triggers a feeding response, encouraging bees to consume honey and become less aggressive.
- Wait a minute after smoking to allow the bees to settle before proceeding.
-
Removing the Boxes
- Remove the top boxes one at a time to avoid overwhelming the colony or causing chaos.
- Gently place the boxes on their sides 5–10 feet from the hive to allow bees an easy exit path.
- This distance is close enough for bees to orient back to the hive but far enough to prevent immediate re-entry.
-
Bee Evacuation
- Bees will naturally leave the removed boxes and return to the main hive, as their instinct is to regroup with the colony.
- Avoid shaking or forcing bees out, as this can stress or injure them.
-
Alternative Methods (Bee Escapes)
- For a more controlled evacuation, a bee escape can be installed under the honey boxes.
- Modify the separator canvas by cutting a "C" shaped flap to direct bees through the escape.
- Alternatively, create a permanent mounting board with a 2-inch hole to hold the bee escape securely.
-
Post-Removal Considerations
- After harvesting, ensure the remaining hive structure is intact and the colony has enough resources (honey and brood) to thrive.
- Unlike top bar hives, Warre hive combs can often be reused, reducing the need for bees to rebuild wax constantly.
By following these steps, beekeepers can efficiently and humanely remove bees from honey boxes while maintaining colony health and productivity. This process reflects the gentle, low-interference philosophy of Warre beekeeping.
Summary Table:
| Step | Key Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Timing (Dusk) | Remove boxes when bees are less active. | Minimizes defensive behavior and simplifies evacuation. |
| Using Smoke | Apply 1-2 puffs at the entrance; wait 1 minute. | Calms bees, masks alarm pheromones, and encourages feeding. |
| Removing Boxes | Gently place boxes 5–10 ft from hive on their sides. | Allows bees to exit naturally and return to the colony. |
| Bee Evacuation | Avoid shaking; let bees leave on their own. | Reduces stress and injury to the colony. |
| Alternative Methods | Install bee escapes or modify separator canvas with a "C" flap. | Provides controlled bee exit paths for efficient removal. |
| Post-Removal | Ensure hive structure is intact and colony has sufficient resources. | Supports colony health and comb reuse in Warre hives. |
Need expert Warre hive supplies or advice? Contact HONESTBEE for wholesale beekeeping equipment tailored to commercial apiaries and distributors.
