Regarding Chris' question I have limited experience, but perhaps a similar
climate here in Central Maine.  Last year I wrapped early and we had a
balmy Fall until Christmas.  By Jan 1, one colony had eaten 100# of honey,
having been rearing much brood.  Others had to be fed sugar in late winter,
and most became voracious consumers of pollen substitute by early March,
apparently having depleted their pollen stores on brood.  With diligence
the losses were minimaI, being limited to the ravages of trachael mites on
susceptible colonies weakened despite treatment, but I can do without
weekly treks on snowshoes to feed hungry colonies.  I shall wait until
Thanksgiving to wrap this year unless ithe weather gets very cold before
that time.

Bill Morong