From the Rev. Langstroth: In cold climates, bees, in this month, are usually in a state of repose. If the colonies have had proper attention in the Fall, nothing will ordinarily need to be done, that will excite them to an activity always more or less injurious. In very cold climates, however, when a severe temperature is of very long continuance, it will be necessary, if the hives are not most thoroughly protected, to bring them into a warm room to thaw out the ice, and allow the bees to get access to their supplies. If the holes in the spare honey-board are left open, the hives may be set low, and if completely covered with snow, so much the better for the bees, if proper precautions are used to prevent the water from entering them, in case of a sudden thaw. In January there are occasionally, even in very cold latitudes, days so pleasant that bees can fly out to discharge their feces; do not confine them, even if some are lost on the snow. In this month clean the bottom-boards, but disturb the bees as little as possible.

Hive Boxes in Storage

• Scrape the propolis from all the hive boxes. Repair and repaint them as necessary. Replace any boxes which are in such poor condition as not being easily repaired.
• If unassembled boxes were ordered, assemble them this month.
• Paint new boxes.
• Ensure there is an adequate supply of entrance reducers. If not, make or order more.

Frames in Storage

• Make up some new frames. If the plan is use wax foundation, make the frames and add the wiring. Don't add the wax foundation yet, as that would provide some place for growing wax moths or other critters.

Hive Tools

• Clean all hive tools really well. If any repairs are needed, do so (a good guide is the Sharpening Handbook).
  • Replace any tools which cannot be repaired.
• Spray paint tool handles using a bright, neon color. That will make them easier to find when dropped (or the tool is left behind).

Other

• Check the bee suit for any repairs it may need, especially repairs needed for the veil.
• Ensure there is an adequate supply of hive beetle traps. If not, order more.

Pest Management Controls

Addresses ********************************************************************************************************** Cultural Options

Strap the hives to a secure stand. This helps to ensure the larger critters cannot push the hives over (e.g., by a deer rubbing against the side), and stops racoons from opening the top.

High winds, large critters, & medium sized critters ********************************************************************************************************** Genetic Options

(none at this time)

(n/a) ********************************************************************************************************** Chemical Options

(none at this time)

(n/a)

⇦

December

February

⇨

About this Site

Disclaimer: eMail comments to me at BeekeepingBoK @ Gmail.com. The process of beekeeping can cause injury or be a health hazard unless proper precautions are taken, including the wearing of appropriate protective equipment.