How can beekeepers support their colonies during a dearth?

Providing supplemental feeding with sugar syrup or protein patties is a highly effective way for beekeepers to support their colonies during a dearth. A dearth refers to a period when flowering plants are scarce, leading to insufficient natural food sources for honey bees. During these times, colonies may struggle to find enough nectar and pollen, which can hinder their health, growth, and productivity.

By offering sugar syrup, beekeepers can mimic the natural sugars that bees would normally gather from flowering plants, helping to maintain their energy levels and supporting the hive's survival. Protein patties can also be crucial as they provide essential nutrients that may be lacking in the environment, particularly amino acids necessary for brood development and overall colony vitality.

This supportive action allows colonies to not only survive but also potentially thrive when natural foraging is limited, ensuring the bees have sufficient resources to carry them through challenging times.