After reading about all the winter losses, I count myself very lucky. 5 years ago, I started with two colonies... then in the past two years, I've made two splits and caught two swarms.
I'm going to be sad for sure, when I encounter my first loss. As I said, I feel very lucky. All my hives are healthy... made it through our winters (for Florida of course)... plenty of stores and the drones are flying. Adding second deeps to my two swarms cuz they are busting at the seams and I don't want THEM to swarm. I don't feed or treat. The state inspectors have been amazed at the low mite count. I am lucky! Then again, I inspect often, and baby the colonies. I had respectable honey extraction last year... 120lbs from two double super hives (left the splits & swarms alone). Still have honey to bottle from Sept. Did I say I feel lucky?
I still consider myself a new Beek, although I have learned much these last few years, especially from reading the forums! If not for my friend Jerry and Mentor, I don't think I would have done this well.
So for you folks that have lost hives and are sad, I do feel for you. I know it will happen to me eventually and it won't be easy.
So (again)... without saying I feel lucky again, I know I can turn 360° in the next week and loose 'em all!!!
Now with that said, I'm going to sit back and watch more JP, Schawee, Emil (JP Apprentice/wannabee) Videos!!!!
...DOUG
KD4MOJ
Great Job!