As February rolls in, winter may still have a firm grip on your region, but your bees are quietly preparing for spring. While it’s too early for full inspections, there are several critical tasks you can perform to keep your hive healthy, prevent starvation, and get a head start on spring success. Whether you're a beginner or have a few seasons under your belt, this checklist will guide you through February beekeeping essentials.

1. Check Food Stores and Supplement if Needed

Winter is far from over, and February often brings late-season cold snaps. This is a crucial time to ensure your bees don’t run out of food.

  • What to check: Gently lift the back of the hive to assess its weight. A light hive may indicate low honey stores.

  • What to do: If food stores are low, provide supplemental feeding using sugar patties, fondant, or candy boards. Avoid liquid feed at this time, as it can increase moisture levels and chill the hive.

Tip: Always place supplemental feed directly above the cluster for easy access.

Regional Tip: In northern states like Minnesota and North Dakota, supplemental feeding is often crucial due to harsher conditions, while in southern states like Texas and Georgia, bees may have access to natural food sources sooner.

2. Monitor for Moisture Buildup

Excess moisture is more dangerous than cold during winter. Condensation dripping onto bees can cause fatal chilling.

  • What to check: Look for water droplets or damp surfaces inside the hive cover.

  • What to do: Ensure proper ventilation by checking that upper entrances or ventilation holes are clear. Adding a moisture-absorbing material like a quilt box or burlap can help absorb excess moisture.

Tip: Tilting the hive slightly forward can help moisture drain out through the entrance.

Regional Tip: In humid regions such as the Pacific Northwest, moisture control is especially important to prevent mold and hive losses.

3. Inspect Hive Entrances and Clear Obstructions

Blocked entrances can prevent proper ventilation and trap bees inside, making them vulnerable to starvation and pests.

  • What to check: Ensure entrances are clear of snow, ice, dead bees, and debris.

  • What to do: Gently clear any obstructions using a stick or brush, but avoid disturbing the cluster.

Tip: Reduce the entrance size if necessary to protect against cold winds and predators.

Regional Tip: In snow-prone regions like New England or the Midwest, regular checks to remove snow buildup are vital.

4. Monitor for Pests and Predators

While the bees are less active, pests like mice, wax moths, and small hive beetles can become a problem.

  • What to check: Look for signs of mouse nests, chewed comb, or beetle activity.

  • What to do: Install or check mouse guards to keep rodents out, and address any visible signs of pest damage immediately.

Tip: If you’ve spotted varroa mites in previous inspections, plan for an early spring treatment.

Regional Tip: In warmer regions like California or Florida, mild winters can allow pests like small hive beetles to remain active.

5. Observe Bee Activity on Warmer Days

On sunny, mild days (above 50°F or 10°C), bees may take cleansing flights to relieve themselves outside the hive.

  • What to check: Watch for bees flying outside the hive and observe their behavior.

  • What to do: If there is no visible activity on warm days, gently press your ear to the hive and listen for buzzing. Silence may indicate a problem that needs addressing as soon as temperatures allow.

Tip: Don’t open the hive unless it’s absolutely necessary and warm enough to avoid chilling the colony.

Regional Tip: In southern areas where winter temperatures often reach above 50°F, you may see more frequent bee flights compared to colder regions.

6. Prepare for Spring Maintenance

Now is the time to get a head start on spring beekeeping by preparing your equipment and planning any necessary hive splits or additions.

  • What to check: Review your equipment, including hive boxes, frames, and feeders.

  • What to do: Repair or replace damaged equipment and assemble any new gear you’ll need for the upcoming season.

Tip: Make a checklist of supplies to stock up on, such as foundation, frames, and medications.

Regional Tip: In colder regions, ensure extra hive boxes or insulation materials are ready for late cold snaps, while in warmer climates, prepare for an earlier start to the nectar flow.

7. Plan for Early Spring Inspections

With spring just around the corner, having a game plan for your first full hive inspection will save you time and ensure your bees get the attention they need.

  • What to do: Schedule your first inspection for when temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C).

  • What to check: Plan to inspect for brood development, honey stores, and signs of disease or pests.

Tip: Keep a notebook to record observations and track the hive’s progress throughout the season.

Regional Tip: In southern regions, inspections may start earlier in March, whereas in northern areas, they may be delayed until April.

Bonus Tip: Build Your Beekeeping Knowledge

February is the perfect time to continue learning. Consider reading beekeeping books, watching educational videos, or attending virtual workshops to deepen your understanding of hive management.

Recommended Topic: Early spring queen health and how to recognize a failing queen before it impacts your hive.

Stay Ahead and Keep Your Bees Thriving

February may seem quiet, but the tasks you complete this month are essential to ensure your hive survives winter and thrives come spring. By monitoring food stores, preventing moisture buildup, and staying proactive, you’re setting your bees up for success in the months ahead.

Remember: Every action you take now will make spring beekeeping easier and more rewarding.

🐝 Happy beekeeping, and here’s to a successful spring season!