February is a critical time to check hive weight and food stores. If your hive has made it this far, they should survive to spring, but many colonies are lost between now and mid-March. If a hive feels light, provide emergency feed like dry sugar, packed sugar, or fondant, as liquid syrup can only be used when temperatures consistently stay above 50°F. Moisture control remains important, so continue using quilt boxes or other moisture control technics. I use candy boards—a pain to make, but they provide excellent moisture control and food. Pollen can be mixed in as well.
On warmer, sunny, dead calm days (45-50°F+), do a quick check under the lid. The colony will be raising small amounts of brood and increase as temperatures rise, food demand will increase substantially, and a small pollen patty can support early development, but only if honey reserves are sufficient. If your hive is dead, Varroa mites were likely the cause, especially if mite counts were high last fall. Inspect frames for signs untouched honey. To improve survival rates next winter, always control your fall mites.
Looking ahead, now is the time to order replacement bees, clean equipment, and prepare for spring colony expansion. Early planning ensures you’re ready when the season takes off.