WINTEBING BEES. 303 



I like this method better than the coiled shaving re- 

 commended by Mr. Langstroth, because that cannot al- 

 ways be in the place most convenient for the bees. It is 

 frequently in the midst of sealed honey. 



The condition of the bees may be ascertained at any 

 time by simply raising the top mat. As the hives sit 

 near the eai-th, the snow may be allowed to drift around 

 them. Should waim days occur before the snow is gone, 

 when it is suitable for the bees to fly, it is not important 

 to shovel it away from the entrance to allow them to 

 issue. Remove the roof and slide the mat back a few 

 inches; the bees will fly off and return without hin- 

 drance. 



The walls of these hives are not as quickly warmed 

 through by the rays of a winter's sun, as those of wood. 

 Not until the whole surrounding air is mild enough for 

 them to issue safely, do they become aroused, and desire 

 to come out, and then it is usually, safe to allow it. 



STRAW TOP. 



There are some apiarians who are unable to have the 

 best and most profitable hive, and yet wish to winter 

 their bees in the open air. 



Perhaps a few such persons may be induced to make 

 a hive that wUl admit of a straw top for winter. It 

 would cost but little more to make a mat of straw, or 

 flags, or even corn-cobs, to just suit the top of the hive. 



Put bars or slats across the top to support the combs. 

 The top board used in summer, may be held by screws, 

 and is easily removed when desired. Such mat will ab- 

 sorb, nearly, if not quite all of the moisture, and the bees 

 are in much better condition in consequence. 



I wUl make some further suggestions to those who use 

 the box hive, and have decided to take the chances of 

 wintering on the summer stand with the least trouble. 



