How do Honeybees stay warm during winter?

Honeybees are fascinating creatures, and their ability to survive in harsh winter conditions are remarkable. When temperatures drop, these hardworking insects huddle together in their hive, forming a tight cluster known as a “winter cluster”. In order for them to all stay warm they engage in a few activities together. They use their muscle power, meaning that the bees in the outer layer of the cluster contract their flight muscles to generate heat, similar to a process called shivering in humans. Another team activity they engage in is through, Queen protection. The queen bee is always positioned in the centre of the cluster, where it is the warmest. The worker bees surround her to keep her safe and warm.

The colony also engage vigorous food storage throughout the hive. Honeybees store honey which is their primary food source, in their hive. This honey then provides energy for the bees to generate the heat necessary and to sustain themselves through the winter. Lastly, the bees take action to insulate the hive. They use propolis, a resinous substance collected from trees to seal cracks and gaps in the hive, which will further insulate their home.

The entire hive colony work together as a team utilizing these ingenious strategies, allowing honeybees to successfully endure the coldest winter months, ensuring the survival of their colony and the continuation of their vital role in pollination.