> why would anyone open up all their colonies in February
> in Pennsylvania?

I was checking hives today, in upstate New York, to assess winter
survivors and add pollen patties.  I checked two yards.  One yard was
in rough shape last fall with 16/30 dead before wrapping.  Lost
another 4 over winter, with another 2 living dead.  Very disappointing
yard.

Checked another yard and it was day and night.  20/21 survivors and
the bees looked great!  I'm not counting chickens, but if the yard
keeps on the same track each of the survivors will be split 4 ways!  I
gave each of those hives two global patties each.  And will replenish
the patties at least once before maples bloom.

How do I explain the difference?  Last year I didn't harvest any honey
from the second yard.  Hmmm.  I may be onto something here.

Aaron Morris - I think, therefore I bee!

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