SWARMING. 283 



one other fact in objection. I once saw a queen run- 

 ning about in a glass hive, while they were piping for 

 a second swarm. She Avas near the glass, appeared 

 agitated, stopping occasionally to vibrate her wings, 

 which was simultaneous with the piping, and seemed 

 to make it. The workers appeared to take but little 

 notice of her. The next day the swarm left. Here 

 was one instance, at least, of her not being confined 

 till the time of leaving, making an exception, if not 

 a. rule. Let this matter be as it may, I admit it makes 

 but little difference to the practical apiarian, either 

 way ; bnt to the reader whose interest is the natural 

 history of the bee, the truth is important. 



1, TIMK OF DAT, WEATHER, ETC. 



_ These after swarms are not very particular about 

 the weather; heavy winds, a few clouds, and some- 

 times a slight sprinkling of rain, will not always 

 deter them. Neither are they very precise about the 

 time of day. I have known them in a warm morning 

 to issue before seven o'clock, and after five p. m. 

 These things should be understood; because, when 

 after swarms are expected (of which the piping will 

 give warning), it is necessary to , watch them in 

 weather, and at times when first ones would not 

 venture to leave. 



SWARMS NECESSARY TO BE SEEN. 



It is essential that you see them, that you may 

 i;now where they cluster, otherwise it might be diffi- 

 cult to find thern. They are apt to go farther froin 



