Tualatin Valley Beekeepers Association

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Swarms

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31 Mar 2026 9:36 PM

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Message # 13615787

Anonymous member

Today's seasonal topic is SWARMS! Yippie My favorite time of year!

The first swarms are the best, they have a queen that has overwintered and come out strong. (Likely a very desirable blend of genetics)

Get your swarm traps out, the bees were out today getting into everything.

From the meeting, Reports of plenty of drones in brood confirms it's that time again.

Time to clean out and check inventory on the Bee Rescue Van!

3 Jun 2026 8:13 AM

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Reply # 13638938 on 13615787

Anonymous member

It seems like I could catch a swarm a day, there have been so many reports!

Yesterday was a two swarm day, I received a swarm call and went to retrieve a swarm trap to house the new bees.

I was unable to use the trap as I had failed to notice a colony had swarmed into it earlier in the day.

Had to round up a box to put the swarm call in (rats, I'm out of good bottoms). A little bee whispering and the swarm flew into my box.

3 new colonies in 2 days and I drove less than 10 miles total. :^) My numbers are back up, if the early ones make me a little honey I'm good for another year.

We are an OSBA Chapter

The Tualatin Valley Beekeepers Association is a regional association of the Oregon State Beekeepers Association (OSBA). The OSBA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to the promotion of honey bee health in Oregon and beyond.

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