Spring: A Fresh Start
As the weather warms, the hive awakens. The queen begins laying thousands of eggs each day, rebuilding the colony after winter. Worker bees head out to forage on early blossoms like willow, crocus, and dandelion. This is a vital time because the colony needs to build strength and food stores quickly.
Summer: A Buzz of Activity
By midsummer the hive is at its busiest. Tens of thousands of bees work from dawn until dusk, collecting nectar from clover, bramble, and wildflowers. This is when honey production peaks. The bees also gather pollen, which provides essential protein for feeding young larvae. If you see bees dancing on the comb, they are performing the famous waggle dance to tell others where the best flowers are.
Autumn: Storing Up for Winter
As days shorten, the colony shifts its focus. Foraging slows, and the bees concentrate on storing honey and sealing it in wax cells. These stores will be their food supply during the cold months. The queen also reduces her egg laying so the hive population can settle into a manageable size.
Winter: Rest and Survival
In winter the bees stay inside the hive, forming a tight cluster around the queen to keep her warm. They gently vibrate their wing muscles to generate heat, rotating positions so no bee is left out in the cold. Honey collected earlier in the year keeps them alive until spring arrives.
The Cycle Continues
A hive is a living example of teamwork, resilience, and balance with nature. Each season brings its own challenges and triumphs, and together the bees adapt and thrive. Next time you enjoy a spoonful of honey, remember that it represents a whole year of dedication from the hive.
