Quick question from newbie.

[wharfrat]

Hello, this is my first year. I'm in Virginia, and the last couple of nights have gotten down to the Mid 30's.
I didn't start my hive until June. I started a package and it is now full of bees in 3 medium supers. I'm currently feeding to try to get the hive enough honey to overwinter. I'm using a Boardman feeder, and have the hive opening reduced to about 1 inch. I had to reduce the opening following what appeared to be a rather dramatic raid. I think my girls are holding there own now.

So..the question....it seems that about 20 bees per night are just 'forgetting' to go inside. In the morning, they are outside on the front porch or around the hive on the cinder blocks. They are still standing as if normal, but have died from getting too cold. Is this normal or symptomatic of another problem?

Thanks for the replies.

Pat

[asprince]

Are they drones? They are pushed out this time of the year.

Steve

[wharfrat]

Thanks Steve, I'll have to look closer tomorrow morning, but they appear to be girlies.