Top Bar Beekeeping in Arlington Heights

Snowed Saturday, really! Sunday was low 50s, bees were out, getting pollen.  Did not go in to see if queen was released.  Now going to rain all week, so still not sure when I'll be able to check and get that cage removed.

A lot easier than I expected.  Hung the queen on an empty next to brood comb, added the feeder and all looks good. They were taking orientation flights within an hour. Craig Mitchell got me the package.  Bees flying everywhere in his van, and then in my car!

Was a nice day.  Level, even without needing to do anything.

Made a hinged bottom, two sections, and added a screened bottom for access.  Plan to be able to open up the bottom to spray in powdered sugar for mites and maybe other treatments if needed. Also made a new landing board and cleaned up the inside. Still have 4 brood combs and 1 honey for the new package I am getting through Craig $135. We'll see...

Opened it up to verify, yes all dead.  Took all honey except one bar (made a gallon and a half of honey), left 4 brood and one honey in the hive and closed up the entrance. Looked at a bunch of dead ones under the scope, lots of varroa. Have to decide what to do about the coming year....

52F today, no flying.  Did IR on the hive 9 days ago, nice heat cluster.  Did not see the same yesterday.  Need to check again tomorrow.

Insulation and straps on for about 1.5 weeks.  Good luck!  Left ~10 bars of honey.