Newbie from Upstate South Carolina

[Lazer128]

I have ordered my first two packages of bees for a March 30th pick-up.  I have a lot to do to get ready for the girls.  My biggest challenge is going to be the black bears that frequent our property.  I am trying to find out what has worked for others.  Baited electric fence?  If so, what configuration?    "Shark cage"? 

I am anxious to learn from you.

[Joe D]

Welcome to the forum, Lazer.  Can't help you on the bears.  Last year there was one about 10 miles from me.  After beeing in peoples yards a few times the fish and game moved it some where.  A couple of weeks later it was spotted making its way back.  The game and fish moved it again, hasn't been seen since.  Good luck with your bees and bears.



Joe

[Lazer128]

Thanks for the Welcome, Joe.  I am meeting with a couple of bee keeping mentors today that are only a mile or so from me.  They have to deal with the bears too so I am in hopes of getting some good advice and getting on with building stands and painting boxes.

[tefer2]

Welcome to the forum Lazer, plenty of time for you to get your plan together.

[Lazer128]

I know you're right tefer2 but I always want to be early.  I'm the guy that gets there early and helps you set up for the party.  First to arrive and first to leave too!  lol

[AllenF]

Spend $25 bucks next September and get a bear permit.   Hot wires can work with an electric fence.   Some put small bits of bacon to teach the bears about the hot wires.  Welcome to the forum. 

[tefer2]

Lazer, planing ahead and common sense makes a good beekeeper. We have to live in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to have any dealing's with black bear's.

[Lazer128]

Allen:  I was going to do just that this past October and work kept me from taking the time off.  Next October I plan to sit in a tree the entire still hunt week.  Problem is there are a lot more than just one.  Game cam caught mama and two cubs just this year.  The big males make their trek through here several times a year too.  I am on the edge of a large watershed where no man is allowed.  My place is one of the first you get to when they come out of the "wilderness".  It's going to be a challenge.  I won't put the 270 away after deer season ends this week.  A shot over the head of a bear seems to keep it away for 1.5-2 weeks.  Well.....it did before there are boxes of honey in the yard!