Winter losses
Winter losses are a significant concern for beekeepers in temperate climates. Honey bee colonies can die during winter due to various factors, including starvation, cold stress, moisture buildup in the hive, mite infestations, and diseases. Winter losses can range from a small percentage to complete apiary losses in severe years. Proper winter preparation and management are crucial to minimize winter losses and ensure colony survival until spring. Understanding the factors contributing to winter losses and implementing preventative measures are essential for beekeeping success in cold climates. Winter losses are a major economic and emotional challenge for beekeepers.
- Proper winter preparation5
Proper winter preparation is the most critical factor in minimizing winter losses. This involves several key steps: ensuring hives are well-insulated to protect bees from cold temperatures, providing adequate food stores (honey or supplemental feed) to prevent starvation, and protecting hives from…
📌 preventative4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ Winterizing materials (insulation, wraps), hive tool
- Mite control in fall5
Mite control in late summer and fall is crucial for preventing winter losses. Varroa mites weaken bees and transmit viruses, significantly reducing winter survival rates. Fall mite treatment ensures that bees entering winter are healthy and have low mite loads. Fall is a critical treatment window…
📌 preventative4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ Mite treatment supplies, gloves, hive tool
- Strong colonies going into winter4
Ensuring colonies are strong and populous going into winter is a key factor in winter survival. Stronger colonies have a larger cluster of bees, which generates more heat and is better able to withstand cold temperatures. Combining weak colonies in the fall creates stronger wintering units. Strong…
📌 preventative4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ None