Relieved for now...

[bassman1977]

As many of those who over-winter up north (or anywhere cold for that matter), I also am restless while waiting for the warm days.  Today we hit 60 degrees (give or take) so after work I went down to the hives and see if there were any signs of activity.  Sure enough, all four hives still had a few bees going in and out and each hive had a pile of the recently departed.  I didn't bother checking for food.  I suspect they will be fine.  Tomorrow is supposed to be warm again and then back to the cold.  2 to 2 1/2 more months to go and we can get back in gear for another season.  I can't wait.  Should have 18 hives total this year after packages and splits and I will be training a buddy who wants to partner in my yard expansions/beekeeping empire.   :lol:

[Moonshae]

It's been warm here in Jersey, too. Today it was in the 60s, with lows tonight of 45 or so. I'm gonna give my hives a heft to see what they weigh in the AM, since I won't be around during the day to see what's going on.

[Scadsobees]

Went out back and checked the hives...9 for 9 so far (knock knock :roll:)

Bees flying at all of them, and poop all over everything...a sight for my sore eyes!!! :shock:.

Apparently a few never made it back...when we had the backyard light on after dark, they were trying to get in the house.  One made it, and the spiders were out and eating....

[CBEE]

hIt 70 here yesterday and they were out in force. Gives me the spring fever too !! They were actually briging in pollen from only the good Lord knows where.

[Cindi]

Yea!!  Yea!!! and more yeas!!!  Good to hear of all the bee success stories.  Now is the time to really ensure that the bees have enough food.  When they are becoming active, bringing in pollen as you are seeing, is when they will be consuming their stores.  When they are in the winter cluster, the stores are not used as much, (the obvious, eh?).  Lift the back of the hive to feel the weight.  Good idea.  Have a wonderful day, great life.

I need to do the same and feel the difference between each colony as far as weight goes.  We will have flying weather in a couple of weeks too, not lots, but there will be warm days coming by the middle of February.  That is when I will make a quick inspection to see if brooding is commencing.   The pollen patties will be going on the first of February.  Have a beautiful and great day, Cindi