How do I keep bees through climate extremes?
Heat and drought are managed with shade, ventilation and water; sustained wet is managed with dry sites, ventilation and more autumn feed than the numbers suggest. The real risk in an unstable climate is mismatch — a warm spell that starts brood rearing early, then a cold snap that strands the cluster away from its stores.
The full lesson
To prevent bees from clustering and stopping foraging during summer heat waves, open bottom boards and provide shade and clean water. To stimulate the queen to lay eggs in early spring, feed the colony with a thin, one-to-one syrup or protein-rich pollen patties.
To prevent strong hives from robbing weaker ones during dearth periods, narrow the hive entrances and feed only at night. When temperatures drop below 14 degrees Celsius, bees form a winter cluster around the queen, keeping the core temperature steady at 33 degrees Celsius.
In winter, it's not the cold that kills bees, but excessive condensation dripping on them. Proper top ventilation is crucial. For different nectar flows, hives must be strapped tightly and moved at night while bees are inside, using well-ventilated covers.
This lesson is also in the app, along with the other twenty-nine.
Next lessons
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1:33 7How do hive sensors and digital beekeeping work?
1:36 8How do I keep bees in a city or on a rooftop?
1:36Lessons and forum answers describe beekeeping practice and peer experience, not veterinary guidance. Treatment thresholds, inspection timing and disease management vary by climate, subspecies and local regulation. Diseases that are notifiable where you live must be reported to your national bee inspectorate.