Chilled brood
Chilled brood occurs when developing bee larvae and pupae are exposed to cold temperatures, typically below 90°F (32°C), for extended periods. Bees maintain a specific brood nest temperature for optimal brood development. If hive temperature drops too low, especially in spring or during cold snaps, bees may be unable to adequately heat the brood nest, leading to brood chilling and mortality. Chilled brood can result from insufficient bee population to heat the brood nest, inadequate hive insulation in cold weather, or excessive hive ventilation. Chilled brood weakens colonies and reduces brood viability.
- Reduce hive entrances in cold weather4
Using entrance reducers in cold weather is a simple way to help bees maintain hive temperature and prevent brood chilling. Entrance reducers are devices that partially block the hive entrance, reducing the size of the opening. A smaller entrance makes it easier for bees to regulate hive temperature…
📌 diy4/16/2025, 9:22:02 PM
🛠️ Entrance reducer
- Insulate hives in cold weather4
Insulating hives in cold climates or during prolonged cold periods is an effective measure to prevent chilled brood. Hive insulation helps bees conserve heat within the hive and maintain a stable brood nest temperature. Beekeepers can use hive wraps, insulation boards, or other insulating materials…
📌 diy4/16/2025, 9:22:02 PM
🛠️ Insulation materials, hive wraps
- Ensure strong colony population3
Maintaining a strong colony population is a natural defense against chilled brood. Stronger colonies have more bees to generate heat and regulate hive temperature. A populous colony is better able to buffer against temperature fluctuations and maintain a warm brood nest, even in cold weather.…
📌 preventative4/16/2025, 9:22:02 PM
🛠️ None