We'll just went through my first winter with 2 hives of russian italian cross and they are doing great. Opened the hive bodies last sunday and it was full of bees. Only looked at the upper body but there was 7 frames that were being worked with open hand size capped honey and about 4 frames of open hand size brood in both hives.
The flow should start next month so I think I'm in the clear(famous last words) but, I think it's all good. I didn't reverse hive bodies or feed as per advice recieved on this forum. In a month or two I should be able to put on my first supers and start collecting my first honey.
Glad they made it through!!! As long as they have stores they should be fine. If they get low on stores before the flow starts then just feed :-D
Hee, hee :D I'm starting to wonder how many "They're alive!" threads and variations thereof in this next month?!? Hoping to start my own once I think they're totally in the clear.
Seriously, though, RangerBrad, that is exciting and excellent!
If you aren't sure if they are in the clear, at least you are to the time of year that you can help them if you think they need it!!
Good to hear that life is abounding in the hives!! 8-) We've had more sun in the last 2 weeks than all winter, so that livens things up a little!!
Rick
The wild flowers are blooming in the yards and teh redbuds are also. March 26th is our average last frost so they shouldn't have to wait long to be making there own honey. :)