Swarm Capture from a Tree Cavity

[gtrr4]

I have an opportunity to get a swarm, but it is in a tree cavity.  (I will be looking at it this weekend)  The land owner would like them removed but does not want to exterminate them as they have an apple orchard.  They also do not want to remove the tree.  Apparently they are aggressive, hence the need for removal.  I know that a swarm trap can be placed in the vicinity and hopes that once the hive outgrows the cavity they move in.  If that happens then it might be easier to remove the remaining bees in the cavity.  I have also read that I can use some hardware cloth to cover the entrance of the cavity and allow a 3/8" exit for the bees.  Apparently they will not be able get back in.  Then position the swarm trap next to this entrance with a frame of bees and brood, some honey and empty frames/foundation.  The returning bees will then use the Swarm trap.  However I guess this method take about 4 weeks to get the majority of the bees out of the cavity.  (allowing enough time for the initial brood to cycle through).  Does any one have any additional opinions/options on how to safely remove this feral hive?

Thanks in Advance

Jason

[tbonekel]

If that happens then it might be easier to remove the remaining bees in the cavity.

Depending on the cavity, I kind of doubt it. I think using the trap out method that you mention is the way to go. It is a long process and I have done it. As long as the owner is patient enough. Sometimes the queen will come of and go in the trap, but not really likely. If your trap is close enough to the entrance, then they will go right in.

[gtrr4]

Yes, I was aware that I would have to requeen.

[Perry]

Look at this thread:
http://www.worldwidebeekeeping.com/forum/index.php/topic,29.0.html
I had no idea how to do a trap-out till I read this.

[gtrr4]

Perry, thanks for the link, if I new this forum section was here, I wouldn't of had to lost this thread.  (Thanks more for moving it).  I have watched the video and won't know if this method will work until I see the cavity this weekend.

[Perry]

Besides having fun here, we actually try and help out from time to time. It can be tricky finding stuff you are looking for at times, and then someone usually comes along and lends a helping hand, That's what I like about this place.

[riverbee]

oops i moved it, forgot to send you a pm that i did.....
my apologies!

[gtrr4]

Well the colony did not survive the winter, so I told the owner to fill in the cavity if he did not want to have another colony move in.  This thread can be closed if the mods would like to.

[Perry]

Bummer, but that's nature. 
No need to close the thread, there is good info on it and will be available to others if they are interested.