Winter Hive Warmth & Colony Migration
Recently, I was speaking with a beekeeper and we were discussing why bees move up into the super during the winter months. There are several fascinating reasons for this behavior.
Rising Heat
Warmth rises to the top of the hive. Bees naturally follow this heat to conserve energy and maintain their cluster efficiency.
Natural Insulation
Honey has high density and doesn't change temperature rapidly. It acts as a thermal barrier, providing better heating efficiency.
Proximity to Food
Honey is their primary food source. Being in the super keeps them close to their fuel without having to leave the warmth of the cluster.
A Note for Beekeepers
Beekeepers should not try to force the cluster of bees back down to the brood box. If this happens, the cluster will have to work harder on keeping warm. You may even lose your colony because the cluster cannot maintain its temperature.