swarm cell transport

[rober]

this time of year I always carry frames of comb or foundation to trade for frames with swarms cells. when transporting them in jester nuc boxes the cells would often be damaged from touching the bottom of the box so I added a piece of 3/4" lumber to the frame rest. so far that has solved the problem.

[LazyBkpr]

great idea!!   I use a deep box to transport my frames. Since they are mediums it gives them a whole lot of clearance!   

[neillsayers]

good idea rober, thanks.

[Zweefer]

Great idea, thanks for sharing!
LazyBkpr, do you use just a deep box, or is it a set with bottom and lid?

[tecumseh]

moving or transporting swarm cells or queen cells is a bit tricky.  prior to about 9 days post graft (12 day old pupae) the content of the cell if very very fragile.  all it takes is a jar or bump prior to this time to damage the content.  the real problem with swarm cells vs grafted cells is you really have no idea of the age of the cell and consequently how fragile it could be.

[Zweefer]

So is there something you do to help mitigate the potential damage?

[Bakersdozen]

This is kind of related: I recently heard Dr. Judy Wu-Smart say to be cautious when handling frames with a capped queen cell.  Don't flip the frame upside down.  That would flip the queen cell upside down and could result in the royal jelly separating from the larvae.  I am guilty.

[Zweefer]

me too.  thanks for the reminder.