During the swarming season Mid April – early July, scout bees will be looking for suitable homes. If they come to a consensus that it is the best home available, then a swarm will move in shortly afterwards.

Hives ideally should be set up in early spring before the swarm season starts.

Installation

I  offer a service where I deliver the hive and help you choose the best place to put the bees and then after preparing the hive to attract a swarm,  fit the hive up into the tree for you.

This service also gives me some time to talk to you about bees and what observations you might expect with a healthy colony.

 

For Orders and enquiries, please write to beekindhives@gmail.com or call me on +44(0)7717 2517

Prices on application

 

 

The Freedom Log Hive

These log hives are made from Larch or Douglas fir. They are between 18″- 20″ in diameter and approx 32″ long.

Complete with top board, removable base membrane and insulation.

 

The Rocket Hive

Log hives can also be fitted with wooden legs made from Chestnut and a conical roof (hackle) made from Norfolk reed.  I try to select legs that have some bend in them which give the hives an animated sculptural feel.

The lovely thing about these hives is that the body is about 6ft 6 inches off the ground which not only allows you to look up and observe the bees different rythems of life but also to remove the base and look up at their amazing comb and watch the bees working away without causing them any stress.  Like the Freedom hives in trees, the bees choose to move into the hive and grow comb free of foundation, living free from human interference!

 

 

Arrival of a swarm

Gouges

I do get batches of gouges made by highly skilled blacksmith. These are beautiful handmade tools, fitted with a steel and  Ash handle.

They cost £160 each plus £30 post and packaging in the UK.

Please inquire at beekindhives@gmail.com for availability