Cold Hardy Bees

[applebwoi]

All my hives are from swarms I've captured here in the Texas Panhandle.  At this time of year we have big temperature swings and I've noticed a big difference in the hives as far as when they begin flying.  I have a couple of hives that were flying today when the temps were still in the mid 40's but most don't come out until temps reach the mid 50's.  Has anyone noticed this type of variability in their hives?  Are some hives more cold hardy?  Would you consider this a good trait (finding the earliest spring pollen) or a bad trait (burning up stores before anything is out)?

[riverrat]

I think it has more to do with the temp in the hive than outside some hives may warm up quicker than the others allowing the bees to break cluster and fly just my opinion

[annette]

I always wondered about that while I watch my 4 hives and notice a difference in the times they start to fly.

So there would be a difference in the cluster size? 

[Kathyp]

some has to do with the bees also.  i have noticed that my verified feral hives fly earlier than some of the swarms i have picked up from unknown sources.  they also store for winter better and require less feeding.