What is the ideal temperature range for maintaining a healthy bee colony?

The ideal temperature range for maintaining a healthy bee colony is between 93°F and 95°F. This temperature range is important because it aligns closely with the natural thermal environment that honey bees work to maintain within their hive. Honey bees thermoregulate their hives by clustering together and vibrating their wing muscles to generate heat, especially when it gets cold.

Inside the hive, they create a stable microclimate that supports brood development while also ensuring worker bees can function effectively. Temperatures within this range allow for optimal function of the queen and her eggs, as well as the health of the larvae and pupae. Bees are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, and maintaining an ideal temperature helps to ensure the entire colony remains strong and productive.

In contrast, temperatures outside the ideal range can have detrimental effects, such as impacting brood viability or leading to increased stress on the bees.