The PerfectBee Guide to....

Overwintering Honeybees

From fall to the arrival of spring is a challenging time for our bees. But as they take remarkable steps to prepare, we beekeepers can do our part too.

1. What winter challenges do bees face?

Whether in mild or extreme conditions, all colonies face a unique set of difficulties to survive till spring. But many do - here's why and how.
Our bees have extraordinary steps to protect the colony, as a species they have a remarkable track record of success, even in the most extreme conditions.
What happens inside a beehive during winter?What makes the biology of winter worker bees so amazing?What three winter threats should every beekeeper know?Why winter is harder in some places than others?Can bees really survive winter on their own?

2. How do I prepare my hives for the winter?

Bees do their thing very well...but beekeepers can certainly play a key role increasing the chance of overwintering success.
Understanding the key risks and how we can mitigate them is an important aspect of being a successful beekeeper.
What are the Four Pillars of Successful Overwintering?Do Your Bess Have Enough Food for Winter?Why is Timing Essential When it Comes to Fall Varroa Management?How do you Manage Moisture Before Winter Arrives?How do you Weatherproof Your Hive and Protect it from the Elements?What Fall Preperation do you need to do and When do you need to do It?

3. What should I do (and not do) over the winter?

Yes, our bees will be a-clustering! But we can do a lot more than merely wait for spring.
The potential for a quick hive check, taking advantage of opportunities...and learning more. It's all in scope for the beekeeper over the winter.
How do you Monitor Your Hive Without Opening It?When and How Should You Check Your Hive in Winter?How Do You Help Bees Who Run Low on Stores with Emergency Feeding?What Do You Do When Winter Gets Rough: Snow, Ice, and Extreme Cold?How Can You Make the Most of Your Winter Months?

4. What is important for the transition from winter to spring?

Even with the sad loss of a colony, there is much we can learn. But with signs of life in the spring, we have a busy time ahead.
From deadout inspections to checking status of a surviving colony, the transition out of winter is an essential time.
The Critical Late-Winter Period: When Are Bees Most Vulnerable?When Can You Start Checking Your Hives Again?Early Spring Feeding: How do You Help Your Hive Build Momentum?What do You do When Your Hive Didn't Survive Winter?Making Sense of Winter Losses: What's Normal and What Isn't?What's the Importance of Postmortem Inspection After a Colony is Lost?Learning from This Winter: How do You Plan for Next Fall?