able distance apart. The reason for recommending a partially darkened room is, that should the operation be performed in the open air, as is sometimes done, and in sunshine, the swarms will almost certainly rise again, and very probably may be lost.
Second Swarms.—In ten or twelve days after the departure of the old Queen with her followers, the hive is in a state to send forth another band of emigrants. The young Queen, thwarted by the workers in her attempt to destroy her rivals yet in their cradles,[1] traverses the combs in every direction in a state of great agitation, causing by her impetuous courses disorder and confusion amongst the inhabitants, and thereby raising the temperature of the hive to such a height, that the bees, unable to support the augmented heat, hurry along with their irritated Queen towards the outlet of the hive, and depart. As there are often from six to ten queens, and sometimes even more, in the hive, two or three will often be found in a second swarm, which has frequently the effect of dividing it, each portion alighting on a separate bush. The operation of uniting them is simple and easy. Cut the branch which carries the smallest portion, and place it in contact with the other; they will soon unite. Or receive first the one group into an empty hive, and placing it immediately under the other, shake this last down upon them, and the junction is effected. The bees will quickly rid themselves of the supernumerary queen.
Third Swarms.—It is in consequence of this mul-
- ↑ See page 95.
