I installed 2 packages in April (my first bees ever) - they now are now in double deeps
I wear a full suit during inspections (head to ankle, gloves)
When I inspect, I do a small introductory puff of smoke at the entrance, and a small introductory puff under the lid, and try to be as gentle as possible when moving frames. I always inspect the bottom of the double first while I keep a cloth covering the upper brooder which sits on a bench next to the bottom hive.
When I inspect one hive - I don't get bumped and the hive goes about its business - this is the "weaker" hive. It's a pleasant experience.
When I inspect the second hive - I always have 5-10 bees constantly bumping my veil/body - and the hive buzzes loudly when I do anything (remove the frame, insert frame, etc...) - and the bees are looking at me as soon as I open up their hive and they will start bouncing off my hive tool too. Smoking them doesn't seem to make a difference. I don't get covered in bees - it just seems to be a constant 5-10 bees bumping me and my hive tool and the much of the hive seems angry and stares at me while the 5-10 bees bump me throughout the ENTIRE inspection. This is the stronger of my 2 hives. Is this normal? Are they too aggressive?
Thanks!