Q off lay.

[misterbee82]

Cold that way, that bees cannot forage pollen. Rain as well.. If you feed protein, bees continue larva rearing.

But in some part of England day temps will rise to 20C.
.

What do you give them as a protein source? As pollen is generally no longer available at that point of the year

 

[Erichalfbee]

What do you give them as a protein source?

Pollen patty, home made or bought, but there is usually no need in the UK. The bees catch up when the weather improves.

 

[mjt68]

What do you give them as a protein source? As pollen is generally no longer available at that point of the year

Although early season pollen is available (pussy willow, Hazel catkins etc) I tried Hooper's pollen substitute (Brewers' yeast, soy flour and syrup) this year and the bees absolutely scarfed it down. I only did it on a whim and was staggered that it actually worked. Gave to all colonies so no control and can't say that it worked, but it certainly didn't fail and I'll do it again next year.

 

[Finman]

What do you give them as a protein source? As pollen is generally no longer available at that point of the year

Our willows started Bloom two weeks ago. I live at same altitude as Alaska's Anchorage.

 

[kazmcc]

Although early season pollen is available (pussy willow, Hazel catkins etc) I tried Hooper's pollen substitute (Brewers' yeast, soy flour and syrup) this year and the bees absolutely scarfed it down. I only did it on a whim and was staggered that it actually worked. Gave to all colonies so no control and can't say that it worked, but it certainly didn't fail and I'll do it again next year.

We got a sample each from the convention and put one on each of Dusty's hives at home. They gobbled it up, although I'm not sure if there was enough to make a vast difference, but both hives building nicely despite the weather. I meant to ask Dusty if he felt it made a difference. Dusty?

 

[BeeJayBee]

Close your freezer door. What part of Hants are you in?
http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2633858

Not that part! Our part is forecast to be colder than that, quite a bit colder.

 

[Pollen]

Have you got another colony to take a test frame from?

PH

Sadly not - I'm going to phone a friend this weekend to see if I can scavange one from him. Hopefully this year's attempt at multiplication of hives will go a bit better than last.