R Trower

Tom, this old guy long time fur, food andan varmint nuisance trapper. Thinking of trying swarm trapping season 2027. Can you share some insights on your methods, equipment, locations and timing? Having been experienced I think that adequate equipment important but location, location location reigns supreme, depending on what you want to accomplish. Numbers and quality should go together, or not, lol. BT

The most productive find was 2 hives in walls of old 2&1/2 story house. Old 1880s era. It was in an overgrown farm homestead full of old fashioned and 1960s abandoned logging equipment. The entries were on opposite sides of house. North entry was about 6' above ground level through a wide split siding board. South hive entry was old shotgun blast through sideing.about 12' above ground and 1' above 2nd story floor. I had stoped there for hydration break. Saw lots bees watering in long tire furrow puddle. Some bees going north of house, some south. Easy to follow in sunlight. One hive gray the other black with thin yellow stripe. Eventually got good bees easy, good honey production and a lot of wax out. Gave the owner $50 and buddy got great place for couple hive stands. Found them in early September in 2004. More later. BT

I hunt established wild colonies. Learned it from my grandfathers in early 1960s. Great outdoor activity for young and old. It is part of my heritage. When we find a hive friends that keep bees will help hive and keep them. No $ involved, just trade. I have found wild hives in some surprising places. BT

Anybody still hunting or finding "wild" honeybees??

I have never hunted them, live in tidewater VA, USA. However in 1979 I obtained a new Tikka o/u rifle/shotgun in .222/12ga. Believe it was designed for Capercaillie. I use it for hunting wild turkeys. After 47 years it's still putting meat on the table. And yes, I use dogs for turkey hunting in fall and winter season. I purchased the gun "on sale" when Sears was still in business and sold hunting supplies.
Remember, old guys know stuff.
Best Regards,
Wild Beehunter