Peter said:
>Having feed and nearly finalised colony winter preparations, I find that I
have some colonies that have not taken up sufficient feed to "ensure"
>winter survival. These colonies produced well over the last season.

If these were your high population colonies from the season I would suspect
a problem like varroa.

Mike said:
We've just finished feeding here in Vermont. Talking with a friend, and
comparing notes, we both agree...it is easy to tell the colonies which are
in trouble because they won't take up their syrup.

I agree.

The exception in my opinion is when you  use migratory tops and only slide
the top enough to expose the feeder to fill. Robbing is not uncommon when
you have got  strong hives. I always find a few which have been robbed which
leaves the feeder empty. Not a big deal but something I see.

I am afraid the first thing my hives would do when the fall flow ends is rob
out Mikes nucs if close by.  The problem only seems to present itself in
late fall. I have moved all hives from the home yard to protect my valuable
breeder queens but will bring back when fall ends and the robbing impulse
stops.

 What can I say my bees will steal honey for winter. Even from hives with
reduced entrances.

Bob

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