Winter rest?

Dear friends and supporters of the foundation,

Dear bee enthusiasts,

Johannisbeer-Salbei (Salvia microphylla)

‘Normally’ at this time of year, I would report that our bees are hibernating. However, this is still not the case at the moment. With daytime temperatures between 12° and 17° Celsius, there is still a lot of flying activity on sunny days, of which there are many.

This is further encouraged by the variety of flowers on our property, which have a magnetic effect. Rosemary and currant sage in particular are in full bloom, despite night-time temperatures in the low single digits. Borage is also blooming profusely again and attracting bees. The gaura lindheimeri is also a delight. After the hot summer, we have the feeling of a ‘second spring’ in nature since October. Can we be happy about that?

Rosmarin (Salvia rosmarinus)

We view this with mixed feelings. Of course, we enjoy the buzzing and love watching the honey bees and occasional wild bees going about their lively business. On the other hand, we know that the bees' foraging trips are not very productive, as not everywhere is as colourful as our research station. The bottom line is that the bees consume more energy on these trips than they can gain from collecting nectar or pollen.

Our weight checks with the hive scale confirm this assumption. Since mid-October, we have recorded a 13% weight loss in the colonies. This is due to the consumption of winter reserves, which the bees use to compensate for their energy deficit during their foraging trips. This 13% corresponds to a ‘loss’ of pollen and honey of approximately 3,250 grams per colony. The average winter supply of 25,000 grams is thus reduced to about 21,500 grams. The high weight loss can be explained by the fact that the bees consume significantly more energy during their foraging trips than during winter hibernation.

Prachtkerze ((Gaura lindheimeri)

Viewed in isolation, this is not dramatic. However, it could lead to serious supply problems in the event of a long winter that lasts until March. Against this backdrop, it is important to monitor your weight regularly, starting in early February at the latest. You don't necessarily need a stick scale to do this. A bathroom scale will also work. If you have not already done so, it is important to determine the current weight now so that you have a reference point in February.

Forewarned is forearmed? To a large extent, yes. If supplies run low, emergency feeding can be carried out in February to help the bees get through the winter.

For us, the joy outweighs the concern. It is good to see our little friends flying so lively and enjoying the sunshine and blossoms.

With this in mind, we wish you a ‘golden November’ and great attention from February of the coming year.

Warm regards and be(e) good,

Yours sincerely,

Klaus Heinzel