Re: Need help to get bees to go to different water source!!! ASAP
It would be a definite good practice to try to collaborate with the neighbors. The only real way to force a reboot is to prevent access to the hot tub long enough for them to forget it, and to provide a better source close by for them to choose instead. Figuring a way to seal the hot tub involves finding what gaps they're entering through in the cover and trying to block that somehow. It might be as simple as draping some mesh or cheesecloth over the corner. Or it might not . Lots of good advice on the alternative source... they do definitely orient to strongly-scented water sources, which is likely why spas are frequent neighbor-conflict sources. Ideas include scenting in-hive feed with something identifiable (essential oils as mentioned etc) and then similarly scenting a dripper/plank setup, chicken waterer, bucket w/ float or straw or whatever, or however you offer water. Once they've been blocked from the offending spa, and reoriented to the new water source, you MIGHT be able to wean off the scent. But if the barrier on the spa is abandoned, they may decide to hit it again so cooperation with the spa neighbor will be well-advised. Some honey helps. Good luck!
Bees, brews and fun
in Lyons, CO