We had a late winter 'round these parts. Last Saturday, we had 6" of snow, but it was warm the last few days.
I had checked my 4 hive during the winter: two of them replied to a tap on the hive with a lound 'Buzzzzzzzzzzz'. Two were silent.
Yesterday, I went to feed them. To my surprise, all hives appeared active: the two I thought were alive were very busy, while the two I thought were dead had some comings and goings as well.
So, is it possible they all made it, or is it more likely the two dead hives are just being explored by bees from the other hives?
I am hesitant to open up the hives this early because I don't want to disrupt any potential activity which may be there.
Any suggestions/comments?
I had checked my 4 hive during the winter: two of them replied to a tap on the hive with a lound 'Buzzzzzzzzzzz'. Two were silent.
Yesterday, I went to feed them. To my surprise, all hives appeared active: the two I thought were alive were very busy, while the two I thought were dead had some comings and goings as well.
So, is it possible they all made it, or is it more likely the two dead hives are just being explored by bees from the other hives?
I am hesitant to open up the hives this early because I don't want to disrupt any potential activity which may be there.
Any suggestions/comments?