842 WINTERING BEES. 



TOO MUCH HOJJBT MAY SOMETIMES BE STOKED. 



After the flowers fail, and all the brood has ma- 

 tured and left the combs, it sometimes happens that a 

 stock has an opportunity of plundering, and rapidly 

 filling all those cells that had been occupied with 

 brood during the yield of honey, and which then 

 effectually prevents their storing in them. This, then, 

 prevents close packing, which is all-important for 

 warmth. Although a large family, as much care is 

 needed as with the smaller ones. Also such as are 

 affected with diseased brood should receive extra at- 

 tention for the same reason. 



Some bee-keepers are unwilling to risk the bold 

 measure of inverting the hive, but content themselves 

 by merely opening the holes in the top ; this is better 

 than no ventilation, but not so effectual, as all of the 

 moisture cannot escape. There are some who cannot 

 divest themselves of the idea, that if the hive is turned 

 over, the bees must also stand dn their heads all 

 winter ! 



Eats and mice, when they find their way into such 

 room, are less bold with their mischief than if the 

 hive is in. its natural position. 



MANAGEMENT OF ROOM TOWARDS SPRING. 



A few warm days will often occur, towards spring, 

 before we can get our bees out. In these cases, a 

 bushel or two of snow or ice pounded up should be ' 

 spread on the floor ; it will absorb and carry off as it 

 melts much of the heat, that is now unnecessary, and 

 will keep them quiet much longer than without it ; 



