Stroud Beekeepers' Association

Treating Varroa

If you are thinking of using oxalic acid to treat varroa during the winter, you might like to look at the NBU leaflet' Varroa Control Using Organic Acids'

You may also be interested in this article on genetic controls

More tips for Swarms

Swarms

If you find a swarm which needs collecting, we have a swarm co-ordinator who will contact a beekeeper near you. The beekeeper will then call you and arrange a suitable time for a visit.  The swarm co-ordinators are very busy during the swarming season and are not always able to answer calls immediately.  They have no budget for operating this service.  Please note that many beekeepers also have day jobs and it is likely you will have to wait for a response.  Please be patient and understand we are a group of voluntary local beekeepers.  We are not a commercial operation providing a 24/7 swarm collection service.

swarm
A small swarm (courtesy http://www.wmconnolley.org.uk)

We are only able to deal with honey bees NOT wasps or bumble bees.  Our aim is to remove the live swarm (depending on its location), not destroy it.  The beekeeper may charge expenses for this service.  Our beekeepers are all local enthusiasts and not commercial beekeepers or pest control officers.  Whilst swarm collection is not our responsibility, we are happy to help if we can. 

SBKA swarm co-ordinator is Julian Cleeton on 01453 833983 or mobile 07876 560327 or try Peter Lead on 07768 881950