In this video, Frank from Mann Lake demonstrates an easy method for splitting a beehive colony to prevent swarming.
(0:00) Prepare: Remove the lid and smoke the bees to drive them down.
(1:37)Transfer Frames: Shake bees off the frames, and transfer brood frames with pollen and nectar to a new box, ensuring the queen is not transferred.
(2:58) Add Queen Excluder: Place a queen excluder on the original box and replace the lid.
Wait to let the bees move: Allow an hour or more for nurse bees to move back up.
(5:58) Final Setup: Place the new box on a new bottom board. Strap it if moving to a new apiary, or use an entrance reducer if keeping it in the same location.
(6:43) Add a Queen: Introduce a new queen or let the bees raise one, based on the season and drone availability.
What Frank Mentioned:
Hive Kits
Traditional Complete Hive Kit, 10 Frame| Z606 : https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/beginner-essentials/traditional-complete-hive-kit-10-frame/
Queen Excluders:
Plastic Queen Excluder | Z159: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/plastic-queen-excluder/
Metal Queen Excluder | MD120: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/hive-accessories/queen-excluder/
Wood Bound Metal Queen Excluder | Z539: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/wood-bound-metal-queen-excluder/
Feed
Prosweet: www.mannlakeltd.com/feeding-medications/pro-sweet-liquid-feed/
Entrance Reducer:
10 Frame Entrance Reducer | WW355: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/hive-covers-bottom-boards/10-frame-entrance-reducer/
Shop Mann Lake: https://www.mannlakeltd.com
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