Nucleus (Bees on Frames)

Here are the instructions for transferring the nucleus into a beehive:

UPON YOUR ARRIVAL

Place the transport box in the shade and let the nucleus rest.

THE TRANSFER OF THE NUC TO ITS FINAL HIVE

It is recommended to transfer your nucleus at the end of the day or early in the morning.

Place your beehive in its final location.

1. Open your hive and remove the 5 middle frames. Lightly smoke the nucleus through the mesh.

2. Remove the roof of the transport box and gently transfer the frames in the same order inside the hive. Do not look for the queen; she is free inside the nucleus.

3. Turn the box upside down over the hive and gently tap any remaining bees to make them fall out.

4. Close the hive and feed the colony with 1 liter of 1:1 syrup, in a Boardman type feeder. You can also put half-protein patty on top of the frames.

5. Reduce the hive entrance to limit drafts, while leaving space for the bees to come and go.

After 5 days, open the hive and check if the queen is laying eggs. If you don't find any, look for small larvae. If you find some, it's a sign that the queen is laying well. If you find neither eggs nor larvae, you must act quickly and introduce a new queen. It's possible she was crushed during transport or handling. In that case, you must obtain a replacement as soon as possible.