Nothing much to report yet on the Asian Hornet front. A total of 10 nests have been found this year, 5 of which were found last week. I’m in Normandy at present and have seen very little in the way of any insects. Weather is sunny and warm but honey bees are few and far between. Sadly a 42 yr old man died early in August from Asian Hornet stings, he disturbed a nest, whilst helping a friend clear his garden ! Also if anyone would feel able to put out a trap, either a kill trap or a bait trap, please contact me, I will send out required information. Sadly there were not enough entries for the Honey Show to make this a viable proposition, so unfortunately we have had to cancel the event. Many thanks go to Maurice West for the work he put in to trying to get the show up and running. Cathy Moore.

Things to consider during September

• Harvest any remaining honey but remember to leave enough for the bees though! 20 kg is normally the recommended supply necessary. A full brood frame weighs around 2.5kg, a full super frame is about 1 kg/ but if necessary, feed them for the winter. BBKA has many articles on feeding to support both new and experienced beekeepers.
• Consider Varroa Levels – check the drop and treat accordingly. Be mindful of the temperature as September progresses. [August BBKA News has an informative article ]
• Check hives are queenright and maybe even mark / clip new queens if this is your practice.
• Combine weak colonies - defined as only on 4-5 frames during the height of the season. BBKA produces information on combining hives.
• Consider whether you are going to add a super for the winter, for further advice read quality articles on the subject.
• Wasps – not that I have seen many to date but they tend to become troublesome with the apple crops falling and maturing , so continue to be mindful and keep smaller entrances. I saw a hive with a heavy wasp interest last week.

Earlier this year one of my apiaries was under water for the very first time, I was not the only Rugby beekeeper to experience this concern. Thus raise any hives at risk and strap them down / add a heavy stone too maybe.

The autumn talks begin in October with a variety of excellent speakers, remember to keep the first Wednesday evening free of each Month. You will be pleased you did !

Gail Plester