138 ONE YEAR AMONG THE BEES. 



molested when the weather is so cold they cannot fly. On a warm day, 

 when they are flying freely, the hives may be opened or any work 

 done that is necessary, but only when necessary even on these occa- 

 sions. Snow will do no harm to bees when drifted about the hives, 

 not even if the hives were totally covered with it, but serves as a good 

 protection in severe cold weather. Some people are so foolish as to 

 get out with shovels and shovel away the snow, thus disturbing the 

 bees and possibly doing them irreparable damage. A thorough ex- 

 amination of all colonies should be made during the first warm spell 

 of weather in March, and if any need food or will soon need it, take 

 a note of it and provide the same. 



It has always been a question in my mind why it is that there are 

 so many homes without bees. There is no diet more delicious or 

 healthful than honey. The great Giver of all good has provided that 

 the earth, with its annual offering of fruits and flowers, shall yield us 

 a bountiful supply of the royal nectar, and has also furnished the lit- 

 tle harvesters to gather it in. Only furnish them a home and a store- 

 house, and they will without money and without price supply you 

 with the most delicious of all sweets. 



