Hi Bill That is a good observation. My bet as to what you saw at the entrance of your colony is not sawdust but cappings (both brood and honey probably). What you observed may tell you that your colony is raising brood and getting plenty to eat. When you get a nice warm day, it wouldn't hurt to pop the cover and check how your colony is doing for stores (ie honey). Once brood rearing begins the colony starts using up honey at a much more rapid pace. So it is a good idea monitor food resources during the last part of the winter. If you have any questions about wintering or feeding, please feel free to contact me. Regards Gordy **************************************** Gordon Allen-WArdell Extension Apiculturist University of Maryland email [log in to unmask] 301 405-3953