What is the recommended colony population for good winter survival?

The recommended colony population for good winter survival is in the range of 15,000 to 25,000 bees. This population size is essential because a strong cluster of bees is crucial for maintaining warmth and regulating temperature to survive the cold months.

In winter, bees rely on their social behavior to form a tight cluster that generates heat by vibrating their flight muscles while consuming stored honey. A colony with 15,000 to 25,000 bees has enough members to effectively maintain heat, protect the queen, and sustain themselves until spring when foraging can resume.

A population smaller than this range may struggle to keep warm, risking loss due to cold exposure and inadequate food stores. Conversely, a much larger population could lead to increased competition for the finite resources available within the hive, potentially leading to earlier depletion of honey reserves. Therefore, the 15,000 to 25,000 range strikes a balance, ensuring adequate warmth and resource management for the colony’s survival through winter.