Well, I don't know about his statement about swarming so late, that it doesn't happen. I had a swarm issue on September 6 (last), I had caught the swarm at a family reunion that I had. (I had the opportunity to show off and perform -- and show all my many, many, many relatives this acquired skill of catching a swarm). This colony has built up quite considerably. Carniolan. The winter ball is quite big and when I looked into their colony around the beginning of October, they had quite a lot of brood being reared, I would say about a frame and a half. (one frame of brood equals three frames of bees, correct? yep). This colony will make it through the winter. Of course I fed the dickens out of this swarm and gave them pollen patty for the young bees. Their box feels quite heavy. I will take good care of it through the winter and see how it does next year. Have a wonderful day, best of this great life. Cindi