That's so sad for your bees and for the poor possum. Makes me aware of the possible issues that can crop up by leaving a package close to the hive unattended for more than a few hours.
I think what happened is the possum smelled the syrup and climbed into the box. The it either couldn't get out, or just stayed there. The next morning, the bees saw the possum and attacked it.
Very sad for the possum, and me. The hive is markedly weaker than the other hive I started. I'm going down this week to check it again and to be SURE the queen is present.
That's so sad for your bees and for the poor possum. Makes me aware of the possible issues that can crop up by leaving a package close to the hive unattended for more than a few hours.
I hope all is well with your hive now.
frostiegurl 2 years ago
Do you think the possum smelled the syrup? Did this happen overnight? How long was the bee box sitting there?
accountabilabuddy1 3 years ago
I think what happened is the possum smelled the syrup and climbed into the box. The it either couldn't get out, or just stayed there. The next morning, the bees saw the possum and attacked it.
Very sad for the possum, and me. The hive is markedly weaker than the other hive I started. I'm going down this week to check it again and to be SURE the queen is present.
Thanks for your interest.
rpalmeri 3 years ago