Synyati Beekeeping continued

John and I made a strategic withdrawal, me a bit faster than him.

The swarm settled and gradually the defensive bees went away. We decided not to open any hives but to demonstrate baiting empty hives. Well it was a good idea at the time.

John, I and a helper went into the apiary. The helper was nervous. John said the hive was empty. I and the helper took it off it's poles to carry it out so we could do the demonstration. The helper, in front, was keen to get out of the apiary and was rushing. He got through the gate before the hive hit the gate post with a thud. At the same time both he and I were stung as wasps came out of the hive. The helper started to run, dragging me behind him. At least we got the hive out. The nest inside was small and easily deal bt with.

Once baited two of the group, with suits on, took the hive back into the apiary and rehung it.

John selected another hive."no bees or wasps in this one." The hive was brought out and opened. The rat was as surprised as the rest of us!!! The rat ran for cover, the rest of us screamed.

The group cleaned and baited the hive. John and I watched. The hive was put back. The group were excited and wanted to do another one but time was getting on.

The swarm decided to move now and, amidst great buzzing and swirling clouds, headed off, never to be seen again.

It was five o clock and only 90 minutes before dark and we had to be back 'on the tarmac 'before dark.

We said goodbyes, loaded into the car and set off knowing we had done some good work and transferred some skills and knowledge.

Samuel got us back to the tarmac with 15 minutes to spare, otherwise we may have been sleeping in the car in the bush.

Once back at base some dinner and an early night. Tomorrow, Sunday, is a quiet day. 3000 people are expected here to celebrate the 25 birthday of the place. I am sure that will be another story.