Winter is Here: Kirky The Beekeeper Prepares Lewsekett Apiary for the Cold
As the chilly winds settle over Williamsburg, Virginia, Kirky The Beekeeper—is hard at work winterizing his hives at Lewsekett Apiary. For Kirky, this seasonal routine is not just about survival—it’s about giving his honeybees the best possible chance to thrive through the winter months. “Winter can be tough on bees,” Kirky says. “They’re not just sitting still—they’re clustering, working together, and surviving. My job is to make sure they have what they need to do that.”
Winterizing a beehive is a critical step in beekeeping. Here are some of Kirky’s trusted methods and tips:
🐝 1. Check the Hive’s Health
Kirky starts by inspecting each hive for a healthy queen, a strong population, and enough food stores. Colonies need at least 60-90 pounds of honey to survive the winter.
❄️ 2. Insulation and Ventilation
While bees generate their own heat by clustering, Kirky ensures hive boxes are well insulated to reduce heat loss. At the same time, he maintains proper ventilation to prevent condensation buildup—a common winter killer for bees.
🍯 3. Supplemental Feeding
If honey stores are light, Kirky adds sugar boards or fondant as emergency food. “It’s insurance,” he says, “just in case their stores run low during a long winter.”
🚫 4. Pest Control
Before winter hits, Kirky checks for varroa mites, a major threat to winter survival. A mite treatment in late fall helps give the bees a better chance to overwinter successfully.
🧊 5. Reduce Entrances
Kirky also reduces hive entrances to help keep out cold drafts and discourage mice or other intruders from moving in.
Winterizing is about preparation, but also respect—for the resilience of honeybees and the balance of nature. “I’m just here to help them make it through,” Kirky says. “Come spring, they’ll be stronger for it—and ready to fly.”
Want to learn more about preparing your hives for winter? Follow Kirky The Beekeeper for local beekeeping insights, tips, and a look into life at Lewsekett Apiary—where passion for bees meets purpose in every season.
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