852 WINTERING BEES. 



have known a great many starved, merely because 

 the sun was not allowed to melt the frost on the combs, 

 and give them a chance to get at their stores. 



DO THE BEES EAT MORE WHEN ALLOWED TO COME OUT OCCASION- 

 ALLY IN WINTER ? 



Besides the loss of bees on the snow when standing 

 in the sun, and taking an airing occasionally, there 

 are some economical bee-keepers who urge this disad- 

 vantage, " that every time bees come out in winter 

 they discharge their excrement, and eat more honey 

 In consequence of the vacant room." What a ridicu- 

 lous absurdity it wduld be to apply this principle to the 

 horse, whose health, strength, and vital heat is sustain- 

 ed by the assimilation of food ! and the farmer is not 

 to be found who would think of saving his provender 

 by the same means. That bees are supported in cold 

 weather on the same principle is indicated strongly, if 

 not conclusively. 



Is ithot better (if what has been said on the subject 

 of wintering bees is correct) to keep our bees warm 

 and comfortable when practicable, as a means of saving 

 honey ? 



To winter bees in the best manner, considerable 

 care is required. "Whenever you are disposed to neg- 

 lect them, you should bear in mind that one early 

 swarm is worth two late ones ; their condition in 

 spring will often decide this point. Like a team of 

 cattle or horses when well wintered, they are ready 

 for a good season's work, but when poorly wintered 

 have to recruit a long time before they are worth 

 much. 



