THE APIAKT. 101 



movable combs may be used, and each stock divided as it 

 is filled, and no swarms expected, yet one will occasionally 

 issue, making some attention necessary. K possible, the 

 hives should stand where the wind will have but little ef- 

 fect, especially from the north west. If no hills or build- 

 ings oifer a protection, a close high board fence should be 

 put up for the purpose. The saving of bees will pay the 

 expense. During the first spring months, the stocks con- 

 tain fewer bees than at any other season. It is then that 

 a large family is important, to keep the brood warm. One 

 bee is of more consequence then than a dozen in mid- 

 summer. When the hive stands in a bleak place, the bees 

 returning with heavy loads, in a high wind, are frequently 

 unable to strike the hive, are blown to the ground, and 

 become chilled and die. A chilly south wind is equally 

 fatal, but not so frequent. When protected from winds, the 

 hives may front as you choose ; east or south is generally 

 preferred. A location near ponds, lakes, large streams, 

 etc., involves some loss. Hard winds fatigue the bees- 

 when on the wing, often causing them to alight in the wa- 

 ter, whence it is impossible to rise again until wafted 

 ashore, and then, unless in very warm weather, they are 

 so chilled as to be past recovery. I do not mention this 

 to discourage any one from keeping them, when so situat- 

 ed, because some must keep them thus, or not at all. 

 Although we can not miss a few lost from each stock, it is 

 nevertheless a loss as far as it goes. 



WTiatever location is chosen, it should be decided upon 

 as early in the spring as possible, because when the chil- 

 ling winds of winter have ceased for a day, and the sun, 

 unobstructed, is sending his first warm rays upon the 

 frozen earth, the bees that have been inactive for months, 

 feel the cheering influence, and come forth to enjoy the 

 balmy air. 



