We take a look at how to keep bees alive in winter. Preparing bees for winter is an important part of ensuring hive survival. Bee temperature tolerance varies from race to race.
In a paradise tropical Island such as Mauritius in the Indian ocean, winter is a balmy time of year where there is less (just a few inches) of rain per month.
In an area with a serious winter, bees are basically shut down for many months of the year. For these areas, you need the right bee genetics to get through the winter.
Bees must genetically be able to cluster – choose the right bee strains/races for this.
The bees must be able to produce a late-season flush of brood and store enough honey to overwinter.