Rookies from Central Florida

[Michael C]

Michael and Debi from Central Florida. Just got our Bees Thursday. Not too sure what we're doing yet. I've been reading up on Bee Keeping and watching some videos. Everything looks good to me so far. A lot of activity. I live in Grant, FL not too far from Indian River. One question I do have…. should I be concerned about raccoons or other animals disturbing the hive?

[tefer2]

Welcome to the bee forum Mike and Debi. Coons don't cause to many problems with bee hives.
Skunks on the other hand, will eat your bees at the hive entrance.
They scratch at the opening and then eat the bees as they come out.
We raise our hives up a foot off the ground to help deter the scratching.
Skunks don't like to be stung in the belly.

[BeeMaster2]

Welcome to the forum.
I have never had problems with coons. Have heard they will do the same thing as the skunks but do not know anyone that has had problems. They probably have to bee real hungry. I do keep my bees up off the ground to keep from having problems and minimize ground moisture from causing problems.
Jim

[Michael C]

Thanks :-)


Michael & Debi

[Joe D]

I have had an opossum  around my hives a few times haven't seen any damage.  I have found a died mouse on the landing board once.  So far I haven't had any skunks in my area in years.  Good luck to you and your bees




JoeD

[Santa Caras]

Howdee from your neighbor in lakeland, FL.  Coons no..no problem. Dont think there are many skunks around anymore. (down here anyway!) Biggest problem i have is ants. Like you I'm new too and when i first put my hives out I was fighting the ants big time. put frisbees under the legs with oil to keep the ants away. That and be sure to trim the grass cuz I found they used the grass to crawl up on the stand too!!

[Michael C]

I will defiantly try that. Thanks