What’s even more interesting is that the empty cells we often see in brood nests are used by heater bees. After warming their abdomens, some of the bees climb head-first into these cells where they remain about 30 minutes, or until their bodies drop back down to a normal temperature. A heater bee tucked down in one of the empty cells is even more effective at distributing heat to the developing pupae.
Something you may have noticed in your own hives are darker cells within the brood nest which contain a liquid. No it’s not some slimy disease – in a healthy hive it’s likely to be a honey well which is the fuel source for heater bees. According to an article on this topic in HoneyBeeSuite – A better way to Bee, beekeepers have often been selecting against queens who leave empty cells in the brood area – believing them to be of inferior quality. It seems this isn’t necessarily so.
Members were riveted by the presentation. Adrian’s parting advice is to be cautious about opening up the brood box too often – twice should be enough for a regular health check.
Member Resources
The committee has decided to increase the number of hard copy beekeeping resources available to members. Publications will be available at monthly meetings and these can be borrowed for a month. Members will need to record their loans in a library register which will be kept with resources. Loans will be on an honesty basis so please remember to return borrowed material at the following meeting.
New committee email addresses
Please note the following change in email addresses:
BegaValley.president@beekeepers.asn.au Lyall Zweck
BegaValley.vicepresident@beekeepers.asn.au John Fuary
BegaValley.secretary@beekeepers.asn.au Suellen O’Brien
BegaValley.treasurer@beekeepers.asn.au Sandy Farrell
BegaValley.publicity@beekeepers.asn.au Fay Steward
BegaValley.ord1@beekeepers.asn.au Tim Crisp
BegaValley.ord2@beekeepers.asn.au Garry Mallard
Bega Beekeepers now on Facebook
The growing trend for many clubs is the use of Facebook to share information with members. This doesn’t mean members will have to sign up to Facebook – it simply gives the opportunity for members who do use Facebook to share information with others about beekeeping which they think may be of interest. Garry Mallard will act as administrator and send members information about how the site will be managed and the process for uploading information.
Biosecurity News
The Department of Primary Industries has approached the club regarding monitoring of sentinel hives at Eden. This is an important part of the region’s biosecurity strategy; particularly in the detection of the Varroa mite. Discussions are in progress and we’ll keep members posted on the outcome.
June Meeting Learning Topic
Sandy Farrell will give a presentation about registering your hive with DPI and media
resources for beekeepers.
Club Apiary
