Among the Bees

Manawatu Times, Volume 62, Issue 132, 5 June 1937, Page 7

Among the Bees

APIARY NOTES TOR JUNE, 1937. The conservation of stores and heat are two factors of importance to fc>9 rembered at this time of year. Where colonies are headed by vigorous queens brood may be found in largo quantities and it is then that it becomes necessary to consider to what extent stores may influence the queen's activity. An abundance of stores encourages a queen to continue laying well into the autumn, thus maintaining a ihive activity that is desirable. The consumption of stores during the winter is not high; between 30 lbs. and 40 lbs. per colony should be ample. It should be remembered that the creation of heat utilises energy and causes a drain on the food supply, consequently it is not economical for bees to have to maintain warmth in unused spaces. Where possible the bees should bo wintered in one box. Remove surplus combs not being used by the bees. As winter progresses, the bees will de sert the lower box for the top, where it is warmer, leaving the unoccupied combs at the mercy of moth and mice.

Once the bees are established in the winter quarters with a sufficiency of food and warmth, they should not be disturbed. Care should be taken to see that stands are in good order and keep ing the hives off the ground, away from

dampness, with, a slight tilt forward to allow any moisture that may collect m the hive to run out. If there is any danger of lids being blown off, heavy weights may be placed on top. The best time to move hives is during the winter months. When establishing new apiaries, it should be re- ( membered that besides the questions of shade and shelter, the water supply plays an important part in the (hive and a beekeeper setting up a new apiary should not overlook that fact. If the bees’ water supply is too far distant, many thousands of bees may be lost during the early spring. If there is no natural source at hand, the apiary should be provided with an artificial water supply.