842 
WINTERING BEES. 
TOO MUCH HONEY MAY SOMETIMES BE STORED. 
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 on their heads all 
winter ! 
Rats 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 OP 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 ; 
