Beekeeping - Consequences of Cool/Cold weather.

From: "CIBA MEMBERS" <donotreply@PROTECTED>

Date: April 29th 2023

Cold and Cool Weather - What’s Going On With My Bees?

After a few very warm days we have moved into an extended period of cooler weather: Highs in the 50s, occasionally 60s; Lows in the 40s, even 30s. What is this doing to our bees? — A significant factor will be their ability to forage for pollen and nectar, and, if swarming, the ability to seek our adequate nesting sites.

Very Cool Temperatures Limit Foraging:

Most efficient flying occurs when body temperatures are in the 75-85 degree range. To the extent air temperatures are lower they cannot fly as much or as far.
Bees having to fly significant distances to forage are at a disadvantage..
Pay attention to afternoon high temperatures.

What to do?

Feed weaker colonies, packages, splits, even nucs. (Feeding can stimulate egg laying)
Continue feeding until bees show less interest in taking the sugar solution, or until you add honey supers.

Swarming: Possible cold weather effects

Cool weather can postpone swarming for a few days only. Once the weather breaks/warms anticipate increased swarming events. —

Consequence and thoughts:

Remember, honey-bees begin preparing for swarming well in advance of the actual event.
They cannot predict the weather. Once they are ready to go, they are ready to go.
On “The Day”, if the weather is rainy and/or cold they can delay for a day or two. But

Once the weather warms they will Go! -

What to do? - Be prepared -

If you use swarm traps, have them positioned. (No guarantee, but will improve the odds of “hands free” capture)
Actual swarms. Have swarm capture “kit” ready to go: