Opening 2008-A, second time

Ants remain a problem. I need to rethink the top feeders as it seems to give them very easy access.

Opened 2008-A this morning. Saw lots and lots of larvae--in all stages. Couldn't see any eggs and never saw the queen. Most of the capped larvae that was on the frames when I got them was still capped, thus they should be emerging over this week.

They're still building burr comb up between the top feeder. Maybe another reason why I should not use these feeders.

They've also drawn out more comb on the new frames that had comb last inspection but still nothing on the four frames that were untouched. Swapped one of those for a Hood Small Hive Beetle (SHB) trap with apple cider vinegar in the middle and mineral oil on the outsides.

Only saw one beetle and it was around the feeder.

Bees seemed to not react to the smoke as much as before, but were never what I would call aggressive.

About 30 feet in front of the hives are blooming holly trees. The trees are filled with wasps, bees and other pollinators. You can hear them buzzing well before you see them.

Also hung the nuc box/swarm trap today. Used a mixture of beeswax and lemongrass oil smeared on the lid. We'll see...