> Allen,do you not ever plug the auger holes?

I'm thinking I may plug the lower ones and just leave the top ones, but have not decided.  The bees seem OK as-is, and they are quite sheltered fro winds by the building and some trees. 

Ventilation is a good thing if it does not get out of control. 

Natural convection carries away water and CO2, but if strong winds can blow through a hive, that can be harmful, especially in late winter when the bees are older, weaker, and supporting brood.

If the holes are all in one side, wind cannot blow through since all the air pressure is on the one side and balances itself.  However, if the seals are broken between boxes and under the lid by late manipulations or there are other holes for the wind to exit in the back of the boxes, then the winds can blow right through and do damage.

The bottom entrance is reduced, but mostly against mice.

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