June 2020 - Zena Bee’s Hive Talk

June 2020 - Zena Bee’s Hive Talk

A new beginning for Zena Bee’s.

We installed our two new colonies on May 31st. They are from Meadowridge Farms, just east of Saskatoon. The breed of bee that I’ve had since we started is called ‘Saskatraz’. I was looking for a breed of bee that would survive our crazy climate, and since I was new at beekeeping, I selected this one. Local breeder, cool name, and a friend of the family.

We had a good run with this breed for the first two years so I thought I would go with them again implementing all that I’ve learned about beekeeping thus far. Fingers crossed. (That helps from time to time)

When we installed the bees it was at the end of May. Just after the first bloom of dandelions. Nothing much else was blooming as most of the trees had bloomed. So, I had to install feeder pails on the hives to get them through this ‘dearth’ period. I checked the ‘girls’ the other day and I saw that they were bringing in pollen, so the plants around the area are starting up again.

I also did a hive inspection a week later and found that a new hatch of brood had happened. Baby bees are very fuzzy, even their eyeballs are fuzzy. Of course, this fuzz wears off as they get older. They look like cute little fuzzy bears when they emerge. I also found both my queens. Queen Latifa, and Queen Zena. Majestic!

The brood is gradually building their numbers in both hives. I don’t foresee adding any ‘honey’ supers on until July. But if the weather and nectar supply is in our favour we’ll be looking at another good year for honey production.

But, ‘babee’ steps for now. Have a great summer and we’ll see you in September. Bee Kind!

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