THE APTABY. 135 



MOVING BEES. 



When moving stocks short distances, or only tc different 

 stands in the the same apiary, it should he done during a cold 

 spell in winter or early spring, before the bees have fully taker* 

 their location. 



If they are to be moved a mile or more, it may be done, witfc 

 proper precautions, at any time of the year. The stocks to be 

 moved should be prepared early m the morning or when the 

 bees are not flying. To prepare a stock in a common hive, blow 

 in a little smoke and carefully lifting the hive invert it upon the 

 ground. Have ready tour small strips ot soft wood and a square 

 piece ot wire-cloth, or coarse cotton or linen, large enough to 

 cover the mouth of the hive. Spread the cloth over the mouth 

 ot the hive, lay on the strips, and tack through the strips into 

 the edges ot the hive. These strips will save tacks and prevent 

 the bees crowding out under the cloth. A sleigh, buggy, or 

 spring wagon, is the best for moving bees, yet, with careful 

 driving, they may be moved on a wagon without springs. Place 

 the hives in the wagon upon a bed of straw, keeping them 

 mouth up to secure ventilation, as bees need much air whenever 

 disturbed. Beside, m this position the combs rest upon their 

 attached portions and are less liable to break by jolting. If the 

 weather be very warm use the wire-cloth to confine the bees, 

 and keep the hives shaded from the sun. In most movable- 

 comb hives, strips must be tacked across the frames to keep 

 them from swinging together. To prepare a stock in the Amer 

 ican Hive, simply remove the cap and tack the cloth or wire- 



