The weather is getting colder. Are your bees prepared for the winter ahead? During winter, bees cluster together for warmth. They’re not as active as they normally are in warmer months.
Because of this, you might wonder if your inspection schedule will change with the seasons. Should you check on your bees more frequently because of the harsh conditions? Or can you get away with checking less because they’re not doing as much? Here are a few factors that affect how often you should inspect your beehives in the wintertime.
Winterization
Did you fully winterize your beehives before the temperature dropped? If so, your bees should have a well-ventilated hive, protection from the elements, and a large supply of food. You shouldn’t have to disturb them very much. If you didn’t prepare your hives, you should check on them immediately if you want them to have a chance of surviving the cold.
Regional Climate
Your local climate affects your inspection schedule. Beekeepers in areas with mild winters may find their bees are more active and require more frequent checks. You might even find opportunities for brief internal inspections on unusually warm days. Conversely, beekeepers in regions with severe cold and heavy snowfall will need to limit their interactions to preserve the colony’s warmth.
Hive Location
The placement of your hives also influences your inspection routine. Hives located in a sheltered spot, which protects them from strong winds and direct precipitation, generally face fewer challenges. These colonies may not need as many inspections as those in more exposed locations. A hive that’s constantly battered by the elements might need more attention to verify its stability.
Food Stores
A colony’s survival through winter depends on its honey reserves. You’ll need to monitor your bees’ food supply. A quick heft of the hive from the back can give you a rough idea of how much honey remains. If the hive feels light, your bees might need supplemental feeding, which would require you to open the hive.
Overall Colony Health
A strong, populous colony with a healthy queen will manage the winter better than a weaker one. If you know a hive was struggling before winter, it merits more frequent external checks. You’ll want to watch the hive entrance for signs of activity and make sure it remains clear of debris and dead bees.
A Beekeeper’s Winter Checklist
How often should you inspect your beehives in winter? Well, it depends on a few factors, like your local climate and the strength of your colony. As a general rule, most beekeepers will check their bees at least once a month during the cold season to confirm they’re holding up against the weather. These checks are typically quick and far less invasive than summer inspections.
