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Do The Bees Eat More When Allowed To Come Out Occasionally In Winter?

Categories: SAGACITY OF BEES.
Bee Keeping: Mysteries Of Bee-keeping Explained

Besides the loss of bees on the snow when standing in the sun, and

taking an airing occasionally, there are some economical bee-keepers

who urge this disadvantage, "that every time bees come out in winter

they discharge their excrement, and eat more honey in consequence of

the vacant room." What a ridiculous absurdity it would be to apply this

principle to the horse, whose health, strength, and vital heat is

sustained
y the assimilation of food! and the farmer is not to be

found who would think of saving his provender by the same means. That

bees are supported in cold weather on the same principle is indicated

strongly, if not conclusively.



Is it not better (if what has been said on the subject of wintering

bees is correct) to keep our bees warm and comfortable when

practicable, as a means of saving honey?



To winter bees in the best manner, considerable care is required.

Whenever you are disposed to neglect them, you should bear in mind that

one early swarm is worth two late ones; their condition in spring will

often decide this point. Like a team of cattle or horses when well

wintered, they are ready for a good season's work, but when poorly

wintered have to recruit a long time before they are worth much.



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