Had a call regarding a bee tree. Entrance is roughly 20 feet off the ground into a large oak. Bees have been there for at least 5 years. I assume that they would be considered "feral".
I did not see that it would be feasible for me to undertake a trapout that far up. I conversed with the homeowners and they concluded that they would leave the bees to continue their contribution to nature. That was pleasing.
They also agreed to allow me to place a swarm trap on their property. In the event that this colony splits, we felt that a swarm trap might prevent the "frightening" spectacle of tens of thousands of bees lighting on their fenced daycare play-yard.
What would be the most fail-safe approach to trapping a swarm? I am guessing that it is a bit/large amount luck. I see the pheremones etc advertised, but wondered what experience the rest of you all have with them.
Thanks!
Oh yeah, they couple that own the property want me to come back and talk to the little ones in their daycare. They would like me to do a little "beekeeper presentation". There have been a couple of "flybys" and a few of the little ones are quite worried. It will be different, but fun....