How to Save a Failing or Queenless Hive
A Guide to Combining Two Beehives
As a beekeeper, you may sometimes find yourself with a failing or queenless hive that isn’t strong enough to survive on its own. Rather than allowing the colony to dwindle and die, a common practice is to combine the weak hive with a stronger one. This process allows you to save the bees from the struggling hive and also boost the population and strength of the stronger colony. Let’s explore why a beekeeper might need to combine hives and how to do it properly.
Why Would You Need to Combine Beehives?
There are a few reasons a beekeeper might need to combine two colonies:
Queenless Hive: A colony without a queen is vulnerable, as the queen is essential for laying eggs and maintaining order. Without her, the population will dwindle as older bees die off.
Failing Colony: Sometimes a hive may be too small or weak to survive on its own. This can happen due to disease, high mite loads, or a low bee population that cannot maintain the colony’s resources or defend the hive.
Preparing for Winter: In some cases, a colony might be too small to generate enough heat to make it through winter. Combining two smaller colonies can improve their chances of survival during colder months.
By combining a weak colony with a strong one, you give the weak hive a better chance of survival while boosting the overall productivity of the stronger hive.
How to Combine Two Beehives: Step-by-Step Guide
Choose the Right Time: It’s ideal to combine hives during a nectar flow when bees are less likely to be defensive. We typically begin combining hives in late August or early September before the dearth really sets in.
Ensure the Weak Hive is Truly Queenless: Before combining, make sure the weak hive is queenless. If the hive has a weak or failing queen, you must pinch her before combining.
Use the Newspaper Method: The most popular way to combine two hives is the newspaper method. This method gives the bees time to adjust to each other’s pheromones and reduces the likelihood of fighting. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Place the weak or queenless hive on top of the stronger hive.
Step 2: Place a sheet of newspaper between the two hive boxes. You can make a few small slits in the paper to give the bees a head start.
Step 3: Over the next few days, the bees will chew through the newspaper, slowly integrating and adjusting to each other’s scents. This gradual introduction minimizes fighting and allows the two colonies to merge peacefully.
Monitor the Combined Hive: After the hives are combined, keep an eye on the colony. You might notice some chewed up pieces of newspaper at the front entrance of the hive. Check for signs of aggression, ensure the bees are working harmoniously, and verify that the queen is laying eggs.
Conclusion
Combining two beehives is an effective way to salvage a failing or queenless hive and strengthen your overall colony. By following the newspaper method and carefully monitoring the process, you can ensure a smooth transition and give your bees the best chance of thriving. Whether you’re dealing with a queenless hive or preparing for winter, combining hives can be a valuable tool in successful hive management.