Bees flying @ 39 degrees

David LaFerney · December 11, 2009, 06:32:06 PM

Went down about 2:30 this afternoon expecting to see no activity, but instead on one hive there were probably 50 or so flying about and on the porch crowding in and out of the 3/4 X 3/8 entrance. Sunny, clear, no wind and only 39 degrees F (about 4 C) for the high. This was the nicest day this week - I figure they needed to take a leak.

Michael Bush · December 11, 2009, 07:24:17 PM

I once saw a steady stream of bees going out to forage for something when it was 27 F and dead calm and sunny. It's never dead calm here, and that must have played into it.

Sparky · December 11, 2009, 08:14:07 PM

Quote from: Michael Bush on December 11, 2009, 07:24:17 PM
I once saw a steady stream of bees going out to forage for something when it was 27 F and dead calm and sunny. It's never dead calm here, and that must have played into it.

What in the world do they bring in with that sort of weather ? Do they get dried pollen from dead plants or off the ground ?

Michael Bush · December 11, 2009, 09:15:49 PM

My best guess was water from the nearby stream, but it seems doubtful it would be warm enough to drink...

KD4MOJ · December 14, 2009, 11:18:26 AM

Haven't seen 'em flying that low yet.... but it was 44F on Sat here and there were a few out bringing back pollen.

...DOUG
KD4MOJ

Scadsobees · December 14, 2009, 01:46:22 PM

Saturday was in the 30's and sunny, a few tried to get out, but didn't make it back... :(

skflyfish · December 14, 2009, 05:01:39 PM

Quote from: Scadsobees on December 14, 2009, 01:46:22 PM
Saturday was in the 30's and sunny, a few tried to get out, but didn't make it back... :(

Same here too. :(

At least they survived the first sub-zero nights.

Jay

MustbeeNuts · December 14, 2009, 05:25:03 PM

Quote from: skflyfish on December 14, 2009, 05:01:39 PM
Quote from: Scadsobees on December 14, 2009, 01:46:22 PM
Saturday was in the 30's and sunny, a few tried to get out, but didn't make it back... :(

Same here too. :(
At least they survived the first sub-zero nights.

Jay

Wee need to talk if yours live over the winter, I am thinking I did something totally wrong. i haven't checked on them since the 5 dead outs, still haven't even gone to the outyard. hard now with all that snow. gotta walk a 50 acre field.
I have been really busy with my other hobby. now is a hot time for me. plus work is still keeping me busy. Guess thats good.