234 
WINTER MANAGEMENT. 
Toe management of bees in the winter scason is 
probably that which is least understood of wll the 
departments of the apiary, and various have been 
the modes urged for ensuring safety through its 
manifold dangers. It seems, however, to be pretty 
generally admitted that it is better to allow the 
hives to remain in their usual position throughout 
the year; and our care therefore should be directed 
to warding off the casualties now to be guarded 
against. Ignorant attention, nevertheless, is some- 
times worse even than neglect; and having once 
made the needful winter arrangements, there ought 
to be as litile subsequent disturbance as possible. 
The great points to be observed are, adequate 
exterior covering and complete protection from the 
effects of wind, wet, and sudden changes of weather ; 
a sufficiency of food to last till the spring, with 
supplies of water as often as required; and _ pre- 
servation from damp in the hive, with full regard to 
the laws of ventilation. As regards the store of 
food, we have already said that this is a matter to 
be clearly ascertained and looked after in autumn. 
When, therefore, as the cold weather sets in, the 
bees have collected and clustered together, there 
must be no more attempts at feeding. The mouth 
of the hive should gradually be contracted, as the 
winter advances, though never entirely closed. After 
every fall of snow, let it be cleared away from the 
