[Lincolnparkdc] Honeybees & Spring Swarms

[Shirley Schwarz]

Since last time (my first order with you) when I ordered and paid for 18 oz and you delivered a your smallest jar, I will not in the future be ever ordering from you.

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From: Jan Day
Sent: Monday, March 16, 2020 2:29 PM
To: Lincoln Park DC listserve
Subject: [Lincolnparkdc] Honeybees & Spring Swarms

Neighbors!

It's nearly Spring which means longer days, flowers blooming and bees swarming.

If you see a swarm of bees, or even think you might, please take a breath, then call, text or email the DC Swarm Squad and we'll send an experienced beekeeper to come over and collect the bees. Call/text (202) 255 4318, or email dcbees-at-dcbeekeepers.org.  

The Swarm Squad is a group of ~75 DC beekeepers that saves swarms of honey bees in the city (JUST the city): it is a volunteer effort. We do this free of charge but require permission to enter private property. We do not remove bees from inside structures, but can recommend help.

For more information visit our Swarm info page: http://www.dcbeekeepers.org/do-you-have-swarm-honey-bees (“Do You Have A Swarm of Honey Bees?”)

Thank you,

Jan

secondstoryhoney.com - brighten your day!


Will the bees in the swarm sting me? Are they dangerous?

When you see a swarm of bees clinging to a branch or lamppost do not be afraid. Bees in this state are least likely to sting because they do not have any hive to protect. Instead, they are hanging out in a cluster with tummies full of honey (that they took from their previous home) surrounding and protecting their queen who is in the deep center of the swarm. 

How long will the bee swarm stay in one place?

They are hanging out waiting for their scout bees to come back and tell their sisters if they've found a comfy new home. Bee swarms may hang out for hours or as long as a day or two. While they are there please do not approach or disturb the bees. The bees will leave you alone if you leave them alone. Believe me, they are just as eager to leave your tree/lamppost/porch overhang as you are for them to go. 

Why do bees swarm?

Bees may swarm for a variety of reasons - they've outgrown their current home; their home was destroyed; they are searching for a nicer geographic location; or maybe because it is spring they just felt like moving to better real estate. Swarming is a means for the honeybee colonies to reproduce and proliferate.

Do all beehives swarm?

No. Beekeepers try to encourage bees to stay put by making sure the hives they care for are well-situated, have plenty of food and water to eat if natural sources are low (e.g., drought), and have plenty of room to expand in their hive. Even the best beekeepers can't always control the swarm impulse in their hives.

Are bees still in trouble?

Native pollinators are under increasing pressure. Honeybees in managed colonies are struggling.  Scientists and beekeepers think all sorts of things factor into it, including climate change, monocultural agriculture (with attendant pesticides), a resurgent pest population, and pest-borne viruses. Many beekeepers in the city have lost their bees even though we are trying to build naturally resistant colonies and treat our bees as treasures, not commodities.

Please remember: honeybees are under extreme threat, and those swarms represent the unique populations that have not only figured out how to survive pests, pesticides, and climate change, but THRIVE. We beekeepers can grab those bees, give them safe homes somewhere else, and help ensure a healthier future where honeybees can continue to make our food supply and green spaces grow. It is a kind of compliment to DC that we have a place where honeybees and people can collaborate so well.



-- 
Jan Poston Day
jpostonday at gmail.com
(202) 494-7425
twitter:  jpostonday
LinkedIn:  http://www.linkedin.com/in/janpostonday



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