Reducing Late Winter Losses
- Ashley Marie
- Feb 15
- 3 min read
As the end of winter sets in, beekeepers must navigate the final stretch of winter survival. With food stores depleting, fluctuating temperatures, and pests persisting, strategic management is key to ensuring colony strength for early spring. Here’s how to mitigate winter losses and set up for success.
February in Tidewater – A Critical Time
During this period, colony clusters shrink while brood rearing begins. Food shortages, unexpected weather shifts, and pest activity create high-risk conditions. Understanding these challenges ensures better late-winter decisions.
Bell & Bee Tip: Monitor colonies closely in February. A mid-winter assessment can prevent losses by addressing food shortages and detecting early colony stress.
Preventing Late-Winter Starvation
By February, colonies should have at least 15–20 lbs of honey. Conduct a lift test—if the hive feels light, provide emergency feed like sugar bricks or fondant. Pollen substitutes may support early brood rearing, but avoid liquid syrup unless temperatures consistently exceed 50°F.
Bell & Bee Tip: Feed from the top of the hive to keep food accessible. Bees in cold weather are less likely to move far for resources.
Varroa Mite and Disease Management
February is an optimal time for Oxalic Acid Vaporization (OAV) since minimal brood ensures effective mite control. Additionally, monitor for Nosema symptoms like bee dysentery and treat with Fumagilin-B if needed. Keeping entrances clear aids ventilation and moisture control.
Bell & Bee Tip: Perform a mite check before applying treatments to determine infestation levels and avoid unnecessary chemical use.
Insulation and Moisture Control
Moisture is more dangerous than cold. Ensure proper ventilation using a small gap in the inner cover or absorbent materials like homasote boards, quilt boxes, or burlap. If wrapping hives, maintain airflow to prevent condensation buildup.
Bell & Bee Tip: Use an upper entrance to allow warm, moist air to escape, reducing condensation inside the hive.
Hive Positioning Against Weather Fluctuations
Tidewater winters bring erratic temperature shifts, causing bees to break cluster prematurely and risk freezing. Tilt hives forward for moisture drainage and use natural barriers to block harsh winds.
Bell & Bee Tip: Placing hives in a wind-sheltered area reduces energy consumption for warmth, helping colonies survive winter stress.
Colony Strength and Queen Viability
A strong queen is vital for spring survival. By late February, brood production increases. Spotty brood patterns, low bee populations, or a failing queen indicate trouble. If necessary, order replacement queens early for a smooth transition.
Bell & Bee Tip: Check for signs of a drone-laying queen. If detected, plan to requeen as soon as possible to ensure colony growth.
Conducting a Beehive Autopsy
Hive losses can be disheartening but provide learning opportunities. When examining a dead colony, assess:
Colony size entering winter
Food stores and their placement
Varroa mite levels in fall
Overall hive health pre-winter
Moisture prevention measures
Recent extreme temperature shifts
Bell & Bee Tip: Keep a journal of hive losses and suspected causes. This data helps refine management practices and reduce future losses.
Early Spring Preparations
By late February, if temperatures exceed 55°F, conduct a quick hive inspection. Plan for spring splits and swarm control while checking equipment for the upcoming season. If colonies appear weak, consider combining them to prevent total loss.
Bell & Bee Tip: Prepare extra hive boxes and frames now. Having equipment ready allows for seamless colony expansion in spring.
Checklist for Late Winter Success
Check food stores and supplement if needed.
Conduct mite monitoring and apply OAV treatment.
Manage moisture with proper ventilation.
Protect hives from late-winter storms and cold snaps.
Assess colony strength and queen viability.
Plan for spring growth, splits, and requeening
Final Thoughts
Winter beekeeping demands vigilance, but with proper preparation, colonies can emerge strong and ready for the season ahead. Whether preventing starvation, monitoring pests, or evaluating queen performance, proactive management leads to a successful spring.
Bell & Bee Tip: Don’t wait until spring to plan. A proactive approach in winter makes all the difference when colonies begin their seasonal growth.
How are your colonies faring this winter? What challenges have you encountered? Share your experiences and insights to help fellow beekeepers improve their strategies!
Content created in collaboration with Stonhorse Apiary & Apothecary.
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