88 AUSTRALASIAN BEE MANUAL 



It may contain from 5,000 to 8,000 more bees than if it 

 had issued before the enlargement of the hive took place. 

 A pretty close approximate of the number of bees in a 

 swarm may be ascertained by weighing it. It has been 

 usually calculated that in round numbers 5,000 bees 

 weigh one pound, but allowing for the weight of food 

 carried by the bees of a .swarm, there is not likely to be 

 more than 4,500 to each pound. Now a five pound 

 swarm is a very fair one, but a swarm delayed in the 

 manner suggested, will probably weigh nearer seven 

 pounds. I have had them eight pounds. 



If a swarm box be prepared and weighed, and the 

 weight marked on the box it will be easy to find the 

 weight of any swarm hived in it. Second swarms are 

 always much lighter than first swarms, and beginners 

 purchasing swarms, should always arrange to find their 

 own swarm box, and to be supplied with swarms weigh- 

 ing not less than five pounds ; they can then depend upon 

 getting first swarms, with a laying queen. 



SYMPTOMS OF SWARMING. 



A certain guide to the approach of the first of the 

 swarming season is the appearance of drones in Spring, 

 and a sure sign that a colony is making preparations to 

 swarm, is the building of queen cells. 



SWARMING SEASON. 



In the most northern parts of Australia the season 

 commences in August, and in the extreme northern 

 districts of New Zealand in September, but in most other 

 parts of Australasia it commences in October, and 

 continues frequently to the end of February. 



PREPARING FOR SWARMS. 



At the approach of the swarming period, everything 

 requisite to facilitate the hiving of swarms should be in 

 readiness, so that the bee-keeper can lay his hand on the 

 necessary appliances at a moment's notice. All the new 



