278 AGRICULTURE 



been properly attended to at the right time, 

 the bees will require nothing. 



Opening of the hive occasions great loss 

 of heat, which loss, at this time of the year, 

 is very serious. A good queen begins to 

 lay in January, but if the temperature of 

 the hive is suddenly reduced she ceases to 

 do so, and the brood already in existence 

 becomes "chilled" and dies. 



If the sun shines brightly while snow is 

 on the ground, the bees will be tempted 

 out to perish. To avoid this, shade the 

 entrances by placing a board against the 

 front of the hive. 



One should now begin to make one's 

 plans for the ensuing season, and to pro- 

 ceed with any preparations possible. 

 February Much the same advice applies for Feb- 

 ruary as for January. If there are any 

 stocks of which one is doubtful, give a 

 cake of candy over the feed-hole in quilt 

 without disturbing the bees, and cover up 

 again warmly. A little extra covering may 





