and its Economic Management. 23. 



some. If the combs are to be cleared, shake the bees 

 back into the hive, or at the entrance by a motion similar 

 to that of throwing, beginning however with a gentle 

 shake, and then more vigorously, as the bees become 

 frightened. Nothing tends to subdue them so thoroughly,, 

 and on no account should a brush or feather be used until 

 the bees have first been so shaken ; as by brushing them 

 from the combs they are much irritated. 



Italian and Carniolan Bees seldom require to be inti- 

 midated. They can be handled almost anyhow, and what 

 is remarkable with both these varieties, and also some 

 stocks of Syrian bees, it matters not how long the hive 

 may remain uncovered, they continue perfectly peaceful. 

 With these, begin by peeling off the quilt gently, and 

 then proceed to remove the combs in the same manner, 

 and hardly a bee will take wing. Get them from the 

 combs by shaking as above, when necessary, and no stings 

 will be given as a rule. 



Uniting. 



Where bees are in fixed combs, drive both (or all), then 

 remove all queens but the one wanted ; stand the combed 

 hive to receive them in an inverted position near to where 

 they are to remain and throw all into the one. As soon 

 as the bees are a little settled turn the skep right way up 

 on two I -inch sticks laid on the floor board ; remove such 

 sticks in the evening and see that the entrance is not less 

 than 3-in. by f-in. 



Bees in frame hives can be joined by alternating the 

 combs of one with those of the other. Smoke each hive 

 and then part the combs so that no bees hang from one 

 to the other, and then proceed to unite the two. Leave 

 only one queen, cover up carefully and do not disturb 

 them again. If two standing near together are to be 



