Keeping Honey Bees and Swarm Trapping: A Better Way to Collect "Free" Bees

Discover how to successfully attract and capture swarms—even when you can’t be there in person. In this engaging and practical guide, Grant F. C. Gillard explains the challenges beekeepers face when swarms depart before anyone arrives, and how strategically placed swarm traps can help you catch “runaway” bees from miles around. Through real beekeeping experiences, he reveals the mindset behind building effective bait hives, selecting ideal trap locations, and mimicking natural cavities to consistently attract scout bees.

Key Features

• Real-world strategies for trapping swarms you never see leave the hive

• How to design and set up effective bait boxes and decoy hives

• Insights into swarm behavior, scout bee activity, and timing

• Practical tips for placing traps around your community for maximum success

• Written with storytelling, experience, and clear beekeeping wisdom

About the Author
Grant F. C. Gillard began beekeeping in Glenville, Minnesota, after graduating from Iowa State University with a degree in Agriculture. Inspired by a chance beekeeping class, he went on to develop a lifelong passion—and later commercial interest—in honey bees. His work blends hands-on experience with accessible teaching that benefits beekeepers at every level.

A must-read for beekeepers looking to expand their skills, minimize missed swarms, and increase hive numbers naturally.