I can’t believe how long it’s been since I last posted an update on here. Sorry folks, but you know how these things are, you always mean to, you are going to get round to it but somehow other things always get in the way. Real life takes over and at this time of year there is always something else to do.

So what has been happening at Alledal? Well the heatwave broke soon after my last post and we’ve had almost a couple of weeks of unsettled weather – sunshine and showers. It’s cooler, thank goodness and the rain is making everything grow. In fact this is perfect growing weather. The greenhouse is full to bursting with the tomatoes, chillies and salads growing apace. I can’t see it being much longer before I’ll be able to tell how our tomatoes taste. Webster, my favourite goose is growing so quickly I’m certain if you just stood and watched him for a while you’d actually see him grow. He [well actually sex unknown] seems to have three passions in life, eating sleeping and swimming: which to me sounds like a perfect life for a goose. The rest of our flock are doing well. None of the broody ducks or geese managed to hatch anything though, which is sad. So much for the nature knows best theory.

I’m about ready to take off my first supers of honey which is always exciting. I’ve just about decided that the small amount of honey left from last year will be used to make mead/honey beer. We almost got an extra hive last week. While out walking the dog I noticed a swarm resting in the hedgerow – Exciting! Now in all my time as a beekeeper I have never had to deal with a swarm. We covered them in the beekeeping course I did and there’s loads of anecdotal evidence from other beekeepers about how easy they are to rehome. I’ve heard stories of people taking them home in cardboard boxes, carrier bags and even a bowler hat so I wasn’t worried. Once back at the house it was hit the books to find out the procedure which I have to admit was as simple as I remembered. I just had to wait till all the flyers were back in the evening and I could claim them for my own. You’ve heard the old saying “don’t count your chickens”? Well it appears that swarming bees should also not be counted. As by the time I had set up a new hive in my apiary they had moved on – such a shame. I think next time, if there ever is a next time, I’ll move them as soon as I find them.

Another small mystery – someone is eating the crayfish from out of the river. I’m just not sure who. I know we have herons which do eat crayfish, but are they delicate enough to leave remains like those in the picture? somehow I just can’t see it. Who ever it is they don’t seem to care it’s not crayfish season here yet. We won’t be having crayfish parties for another couple of months.