Welcome to Downton Bees

Learn about bees and beekeeping, order local honey, and get up to date information about honey bees kept in the Downton area (Wiltshire UK).

Please report a swarm of honey bees

The typical swarming season is May-June. If you see a swarm of honey bees clustering in a similar way to the picture below then please get in contact. CLICK HERE to see more swarm pictures.

Please do not contact me about bumble bees. I will not remove these under any circumstances.

Although swarms are not usually dangerous they should not be approached. If you see a swarm of bees you can contact me on one of the numbers above or look at the Salisbury Beekeeping Association website at www.salisburybka.co.uk for contact details of the 'Salisbury swarm coordinator.'

There is no fee for swarm removal but some swarms cannot be removed.

If you are the first to report a swarm or the swarm is on your property you will be given a free pot of honey produced in Downton.

With thanks,

Graham Lloyd-Jones (Beekeeper)

Local beekeepers meeting

On Sunday 29th April 2012 there was a get together of Downton and area beekeepers (and those interested in beekeeping). 10 of us met in the White Horse Pub in Downton on possibly the worst weather day of the year. We made plans for collecting swarms and encouraging new beekeepers.

If you would be interested in joining us at the next meeting, which will hopefully be equally informal, then please email me at graham@downtonbees.co.uk

Swarms 2011

Here is a short video to show how beekeepers can collect swarms of honey bees - but don't try this at home!

How to collect a swarm of honey bees

Place a box under the swarm.

Shake the cluster into the box.

Turn the box upside down on a large sheet, and prop up on one side to create an opening.

If the queen is in the box they will all find her using their 'fanning' behaviour.

Wrap up the box with the sheet and take to a hive containing frames with wax foundation.

Shake the bees onto a ramp in front of the hive.

Occasionally you'll see the queen in the crowd as they march upwards.

Treat with icing sugar to reduce varroa.

Place a narrow entrance block.

Sit back and have a beer!

Foraging photos

Here is a Downton honey bee foraging on creeping thyme. To see more close up photos of honey bees foraging go to the Bee Photos page.

If you have taken any good pictures of honey bees please email them to me so I can post them on the website.

Best wishes