366 MONTHLY MANAGEMENT. 



of winter, we should find them during this month 

 remaining within their hive happy and contented ; 

 not dormant, nor in a half-benumbed state, as some 

 suppose. 



Any one can prove this, by opening a hive when 

 the temperature is very low, even many degrees 

 below zero. The bees will be found active and capa- 

 ble of flying instantly if introduced to a warm atmos- 

 phere. In fact, some will rush out and fly a few feet 

 (when they drop dead) even in a cold, frosty atmos- 

 phere. Any that separate from the cluster at such 

 times are lost ; hence the caution not to disturb them. 



It is the nature of the bee to fill its sac with honey 

 whenever the hive is disturbed. Excitement or dis- 

 turbance also induces them to consume more food, 

 which, in turn, induces impatience to fly out when 

 too cool for safety. Hence, it is apparent that the 

 health and safety of bees are greatly promoted by 

 being allowed to remain undisturbed during each 

 period of cold weather. When the weather becomes 

 sufficiently warm to allow them to fly and return with 

 safety, they should be allowed to do so at any time of 

 year. At such -times, the front slide should be 

 raised, and all accumulations of dead bees and filth 

 removed. * 



In keeping his hives dry, and in the manufacture 

 of hives and honey boxes for the coming season, the 

 apiarian will find full employment. 



