Winter Preparation

October, November & December

With all the required syrup now in the brood chamber, all should be well for winter. Fit a mouse guard to the entrance if not done already. Strap and/or weigh down the roof against winter wind. Monitor the now small entrance regularly for the buildup of dead bees. Bees, unfortunately, are dying all the time, and just a few can block the entrance, leaving the others unable to get out.

Keep a regular check for Woodpecker damage or rain getting in. Be aware that deer or other animals could knock the hive over rubbing against to satisfy an itch. Feeding should not be required yet but keep an emergency block of Candy with you just in case, Most of the colonies that die out are due to starvation. Most important, remember bees are Livestock and we have a duty to look after them as best we can.