I go A Modern Bee- Farm 



paste ; this should be almost dry, and give no sign of 

 " running " under any temperature. 



It is best made up some time before actually required for 

 use, so that any excess of moisture may descend, leaving the 

 upper portion just right for the cages. When the compartment 

 is filled a sheet of wax or a piece of parchment covers the 

 opening, while a thin lid of wood fits over the whole, being 

 secured with brads or tacks. (See Fig. 55.) 



Inserting the Bees. 



The lid is first to be tacked on only at one corner, at the 

 side of the food compartment. Hold the cage in the left hand 

 with the thumb on the lid just above the ventilated chamber, 

 and now pick from the combs about a dozen young bees with 

 the right hand, inserting them one at a time while the thumb 

 moves the lid back to receive each in its turn. The queen is 

 to be put in last to make sure of no mistake, when the 

 remainder of the tacks can be driven in. 



If the weather is cold more bees must accompany the 

 queen, and additional warmth may be given by outside packing, 

 though this is seldom necessary with Benton's cage. Instead 

 of the brad holes I have found a sawcut through the end more 

 effective for ventilating in hot weather. 



Packing Swarms. 



A "rough-and-ready" way is to tie a piece of strainer cloth 

 over the mouth of a skep in which the swarm may have been 

 taken ; but for long distances something more substantial is 

 necessary, and a frame of honey will be required. 



The box must be as light as is possible consistent with 

 strength, and ventilation must be given on at least two 

 opposite sides. I have had very good results with air space 

 all round the top, the lid being raised and secured to the main 

 body with perforated zinc. 



