How to Move a Beehive

​Christopher C Babcock MD is a surgeon at the Louisville Oral Surgery and Dental Implants Louisville, where he performs dental extractions, wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, and oral pathology. Dr. Chris Babcock was a member of the Kentucky Board of Dentistry. Outside his work, Chris Babcock DMD actively engages in charity. He belongs to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He also enjoys playing the guitar and keeping bees.

A few factors to consider when relocating a beehive include whether it's a short journey or a long distance. Moving beehives is a complex process that requires preparation.

When moving beehives, you should consider the time of day when transporting a beehive. When nearly all bees are in the hive, the best time to relocate is at night or early in the morning. Block the entrance and move the hive to its new position. You risk leaving the wandering bees if you try throughout the day.

Close any entrances so the bees can't get out once they've returned home. It would be best to cover the openings, and you can reveal the door once the hive has gotten to its new site. Keep the bees isolated for the first two days, and if feasible, provide adequate ventilation. Some bees will reorient themselves the next time they go out if they are locked up.