paper-like comb wax

[asciibaron]

i have some frames with drawn comb that have a very paper-like wax.  instead of being "wet" and supple, the wax is very dry and falls apart when touched.  not sure what the deal is with this stuff.

[D Coates]

It's only has honey in it and it's very lightly colored?  If that's the case I've found it's very thin because it's so "new".  If it's cold the wax is especially unflexible and seems to crumble.  I've also found that once you get it back into a hive they'll make the repairs and thicken it up

[JP]

That brittle comb is comb that was honeycomb. The bees consumed the honey most likely over winter and that is what you are left with.

I had some with me yesterday on my cut-out and elected to tear some out and just let them rebuild from the starter strips because it was so brittle.

I really don't know if its worth using when it gets that brittle, I think the bees will have to tear it down and rebuild it anyway.


...JP

[D Coates]

JP

You're already doing cut outs?  Lucky dog...

[asciibaron]

JP

You're already doing cut outs?  Lucky dog...

he has to do it before the flood waters come  :evil:

the paper-like comb has seen honey, brood, and pollen - it's in the brood chamber and on frames on outside edges of the boxes.

[JP]

JP

You're already doing cut outs?  Lucky dog...

Yes, have done around five thus far. Have one lined up today and tomorrow and some next week.

Actually our bees are wayyyy behind schedule, at least 3 weeks behind, because of the cold winter. We even have a front coming through this weekend!

I enjoyed our little brisk weather but the bees are in need of a warm up.


...JP

[Two Bees]

Ascii, speaking of floods......................gonna have some in your area when the snow melts?