256 WINTERING 
for the temperature to rise in spring, from the heat generated 
in the hives. Crowding in the cellar should be avoided, but when 
such a condition becomes apparent it can sometimes be relieved 
by placing a piece of ice over the cluster on each hive. Some 
bee-keepers use a sprinkling can and sprinkle the fronts of the 
hives, permitting the water to run into the hive. While some- 
thing of this kind may be necessary to quiet the bees, it is much 
better, if possible, to avoid the conditions that cause them to 
become restless. 
Removing Covers or Bottoms.—It is a common practice to 
remove either the cover or bottom board from the hives as they 
are placed in the cellar. Some bee-keepers remove one, some 
remove the other, while others leave both in place with entrances 
wide open. It can hardly be said that there is any definite evi- 
dence as to which plan is best. A common plan is to remove 
the bottoms and leave the covers in place, then alternate the 
hives, placing one on top of the two below with a space between, 
thus providing ample ventilation to the cluster. 
In general it would seem that where other conditions are 
right it makes little difference, as the bees seem to come through 
in good condition anyway. Where other conditions are bad the 
bees come through in bad shape, no matter whether top or bot- 
tom, or both, or neither be removed. 
Summary.—Generally speaking, it may be said that the 
extensive honey producers are agreed on the following as essen- 
tial to successful wintering by any plan: vigorous young queens 
with a large cluster of young bees, sufficient stores of good 
quality, and a dry situation. If the bees are wintered in cellar, 
an even temperature in addition is desired. 
QUESTIONS 
. Why are the losses of bees in winter so heavy? 
. Discuss the essentials of successful wintering. 
What stores bring best results and why? 
. What relation does the queen sustain to the wintering of the colony? 
. Under what conditions are paper cases suitable for winter protection? 
. Discuss the advantages of packing bees on their summer stands? 
What are the advantages of double walled hives? 
. Describe the essential points of a good cellar for wintering purposes. 
ANAM WW 
