Winter quietness

[user 11159]

Well, had a little mooch up at the apiary today. 2 colonies are showing no activity, tried removing the hive entrance guard and gave the hive a little tilt, no activity visible through the queen Board or in the fondant tub. Presuming the worst now.

Third colony has some flying bees and are taking down fondant today, so I’ll pop a fresh block on tomorrow.

Just seems strange that I’ve lost the two strong colonies. Thinking it could be disease as hefting I can barely tilt the WBC hives.

i thought the same about one of my hives .went back in the dark and could hear them .so alls not lost ...

 

[Cuckmere couple]

i gave mine their winter trickle treatment during Christmas week and saw a drone in one hive!

 

[Erichalfbee]

i gave mine their winter trickle treatment during Christmas week and saw a drone in one hive!

There are always a few.

 

[Cuckmere couple]

There are always a few.

wonder what their characteristics are...hiding away when clear out happens etc