Traditionally we (well, I) have thought of the cessation of egg laying as driven by the low state of the colony.  Too bl*&dy cold for them to think of reproducing (happens to me too!).  Perhaps though it may be worth considering that this is just something that is part of their normal annual rhythm.  In some parts of the world, Apis species shut down brood raising then abscond or even migrate.  Something that they have to do, and which brings the colony benefits in terms of the shedding of brood parasites and pests, whatever they may be.

Gavin


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