19 



To examine the reverse side, hold the one end stationary and raise the 

 other to a perpendicular position and turn the frame on the top bar 

 as an axis until reverse side is in view and then lower to a horizontal 

 position with the top bar below. To bring the frame back to its origi- 

 nal position reverse the operation. This method prevents all extra 

 strain on the combs. 



If self-spacing frames are used, the apiarist need not be as careful 

 in replacing them as in replacing the plain ones in which case it is 

 necessary to have them all spaced the same distance. Careful spacing 

 is essential in preventing the bees from building combs of irregular 

 thickness or brace combs from one frame to another. 



STINGS AND REMEDIES. 



There are many remedies for bee stings recommended, but all are 

 useless. The puncture is so small that it closes when the sting is 

 removed and liquids cannot enter. Furthermore, the poison diffuses 

 so rapidly that it enters the blood almost immediately. When stung, 

 it is best to remove the sting as soon as possible without squeezing the 

 poison sac. This can be done by using a knife or finger nail. Never 

 rub or apply liniment to the wound, as it serves to increase the after- 

 swelling. 



LOCATION OF APIARY. 



I 

 Any location is suitable unless a large number of bees are expected 

 to be kept. The keeping of a few hives often on a city lot, on top of a 

 city building, or roofs of porches, has been successful in many in- 

 stances. Where beekeeping is a specialty, it is best to choose a location 

 where fruit and flowers are abundant. The timbered territory in this 

 State offers exceptional opportunities for apiary sites. There are many 

 localities in West Virginia near rivers or streams where linden, sumac, 

 maple, willow, sour gum, and other trees, shrubs and vines that yield 

 pollen and nectar abound in great quantities. The apiary should 

 always be near a dwelling or where bees can be heard or seen during 

 the swarming season. Where bees are expected to be kept on a large 

 scale, the selection of the apiary site should receive careful considera- 

 tion. Aside from the general consideration of honey producing flora 

 for bee forage, shelter from prevailing winds, distance from stock or 

 pedestrians, and slightly sloping exposure to facilitate natural drain- 

 age for surface water, are important. The consideration of protection 

 from direct sunlight in relation to no protection has been the subject 

 of much discussion, but without proving the advantages of one over 

 the other.. It has been demonstrated, however, that bees prosper best 

 in the open with the hives having the protection of shade boards to 

 prevent melting down of the combs, and bees clustering on the outside 

 because of excessive heat. Bees located in the open, fly earlier and 

 without doubt gather more nectar than those situated under trees. 

 Shade that is too dense results in dampness which is to be avoided. 

 An effort should be made to turn the entrances of the hives from the 

 prevailing winds. Naturally, the apiary should face the rising sun or 



