For the first time in two years, Merryspring Nature Center is once again home to Langstroth-style beehives. Merryspring resident beekeepers Holly and Dave Edwards will introduce themselves to the crowd, elaborating on beekeeping basics and equipment, the social lives of bees, different jobs among bees, and how the queen rules her colony. Program Manager Brett Willard will also give a short presentation on the importance of pollinators, including native pollinators such as butterflies, moths, flies, and native bees.
The new hives, situated in an easily observed spot just off trail #6, were installed in late June after volunteers discovered a swarm of honeybees on the ground near Merryspring’s American Chestnut orchard. After the wild swarm was captured, the bees were moved into a new hive that included bees from the established colonies at Aldermere Farm. The bees accepted their new queen from the swarm, and they have begun to build their operation in their new home at Merryspring.
This will be an outdoor presentation, so please check for cancelations due to foul weather. Be advised that while captured bees should be fairly docile, there is always the risk of being stung. No signup is required for this program. For more information, please contact Merryspring at 236-2239 or info@merryspring.org.
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