My aunt, Christine Stockwell, and I went on a hive removal together today. With my trusty bee vac in hand we arrived at Lonesome Oak Ranch. The ranch, just in the beginnings of becoming a wildlife rehab center, told us at a local farmers market that they had a large established hive in their shed. This was to bee there first rehab! ;) Spring is just beginning, the hive was just starting to bring in a small nectar flow.......the perfect time for removal. We took down the large comb area and followed the hive down behind the cabinet. Luckily everything was fairly easily accessable unlike many of the removals we have done. No standing on ladders........that is always a plus for me! After we were finished it was apparent we got the queen as the loose bees that took to flight during the removal were settling on my bee vac box. When all was loaded, the loose bees were trying to get into my truck. Yes! your momma is in there! and so in the end we pulled out three deep frames full of brood that we were able to save........inserted them, along with the vacuumed bees & queen into a new home.
Walking through the garden and orchard yesterday found many busy little bees. One of our apples, the plum, and our almond tree are all in bloom. The first of the asparagus is popping up. Take a look at them poppies! We have two Navajo Rugs that we have just put up for sale or trade. Visit www.prehistoriccollector.com for more information. Shown below is the Yei.
Wow, it feels like just yesterday that these sweet babies came in the mail.They grow so fast. They are devouring tomatoes - one of their faves. BUT if you want to see them go absolutely nuts give them bread. It is absolutely hilarious to watch. I have fallen in love with chickens. Today started out fairly nice. We thought it could be "coop day" but the high wind gusts of around 35 mph put a stop to the work. The shed was a craigslists find for a whopping $50. We are reusing fencing and poles and have wanted ads out for more materials to upcycle. Hopefully when it is finished it will look awesome......right now? well, not so awesome! Our work was being overseen by one of our faithful companions. She is not as excited as we are about these new additions. |
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March 2024
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