the hive will be between 10 and 15 degrees. Very strong colonies, no
matter where kept, will keep themselves warm and will survive any degree
of cold, but there is no doubt that their vitality and ability to stand
wintering will suffer a great deal thereby, causing dwindling in the
spring. Cellar wintering is at present general in Minnesota. The bee
cellar should be warm, dry, dark and ventilated. The bees should not be
disturbed during their winter sleep by pounding, jarring, shaking and
feeding. Mice also may cause the bees to get excited and perish. A four
to one inch wire screen in front of the entrance will prevent mice from
getting inside.

The fundamental principles to guide the bee keeper in wintering his bees
are: First, strong colonies, at least six frames covered with bees when
clustered; second, ample store, not less than forty pounds of honey; and
third, a hive with not less than 57 degrees inside temperature. This
temperature may be maintained outside in a double walled hive or in a
hive lined with flax or felt, now manufactured for that purpose, or by
packing the hives in leaves, straw or shavings--or by putting them into
a warm cellar.

Bees in our climate should be put into winter quarters about November 15
and should not be put on their summer stands in the spring until soft
maples are in bloom.

By following these suggestions winter losses may be reduced to an
insignificant percentage, and these mostly from accidents and causes
unforseen, for bees respond wonderfully to proper treatment.