BEE-FARMER'S CALENDAR. 205 



round the edge of every comb when the thermometer is 

 below zero. 



Guard against the entrance of the small field or har- 

 vest mouse ; where your stocks are seated on low stands 

 a strong temptation is held out to them of snug winter 

 quarters : make the entrance small, then they are easily 

 kept out. I have known hives completely ruined by this 

 enemy, who is certainly not dormant in the bee-hive, 

 whatever he may be in the cornfield. 



Work, for November, 



If you suspect any stocks have not sufficient food in 

 the hive for their winter consumption, the sooner it is 

 given the better. 



In making the entrance small allow sufficient room to 

 promote a thorough ventilation. If the hive is under 

 shelter, so as to exclude rain or moisture in any form, 

 then leave out the feeding-'plug all the winter ; we need 

 not fear cold air or frost ; a far worse enemy is damp, 

 which will cause dysentery, and decay of the combs. 



Some bee-farmers wrap a layer of hay-bands round all 

 their hives during the winter months, which is doubtless 

 beneficial, especially if a good ventilation be maintained. 

 Straw hives do not require much attention in this respect. 



If you desire to remove your apiary to a more con- 

 venient place it should be done now. Much has been 

 written about the hives with the entrance facing towards 

 the north ; mine have generally been towards the sun- 

 rising (east), thus receiving the benefit of his early beams. 

 I cannot state how a northern aspect may suit them, 

 having no experience, but I still hold the opinion that 

 bees do far better if kept on single pedestals or stands. 



