new hives, rainy days

[renee]

Four new hives, started last Sunday, have very little activity, are eating from a top super feeder and don't show any capped anything or larvae on the frames.  I'm very worried the week long rain and chilly weather (high50s), which is expected to continue, is keeping the bees in their hives and not collecting any nectar/pollen.  Would a pollen substitute make the difference?  Could it be all 4 queens didn't make it?

[amymcg]

They are probably fine.  They will have to draw wax before they can collect pollen and store it anyway.  It's been so cold and rainy the past week. I would wait until the sun comes out later Tuesday and then take a peek. Refill the feeders and check them out.  I would bet everything is probably fine.

[renee]

Thanks for the encouragement!  As of Wednesday, our first clear day, they are flying like mad!  It made my day to see them so happy and active.  :D