> how would a fellow go about and observe the behavour  and > >habbits of 
> wintering mites in a colony?

You would have to use an indoor winter facility (like is used in Canada) 
which maintains the temperature in the 40F. range (just enough controlled 
temp to keep the bees quiet and in cluster).

Some would allow you to pull frames and do tests. In a small hive homemade 
scenario in the north you could maybe raise the temp for a few hours to say 
50F. Setting these type operations up is not easy as there are ventilation 
and humidity issues. Several commercial beekeepers from Canada on BEE-L use 
these type winter bee houses.

Allen Dick liked to winter outside but was an expert on the ways to set up. 
I miss his expertise on BEE-L.

I know what the bee books say but I have had lots of success not doing 
everything many say.

If no wind we pull frames and check bees in dead of winter when in the 50F. 
range. The frame is not out long. I have made splits in 50F. weather and 
worked bees in a light rain but with rain you need a higher temp. in the 
60F. range.

 if you keep bees for a living you can not always wait for the perfect day 
to work your bees. Wind speed and direction need figured in a decision to 
pull frames in winter. Breaking the seal is never good in early winter but 
in my opinion is not so critical this time of year in the Midwest.

Lifting the lid and looking at the entrance this time of year is usually 
enough but we always want to check at least a few hives to see the amount of 
brood.

bob 


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