What Are The Recommendations For Using A Screened Bottom Board During Winter? Optimize Your Hive For Cold Survival

The decision to close a screened bottom board during winter is entirely dependent on your local climate.

In colder, northern regions, it is strongly advised to close the screen or switch to a solid bottom board to protect the colony from excessive cold drafts. However, in warmer, southern climates, it is generally not necessary to close the screen, as the winters are mild enough for the colony to tolerate the airflow.

The core objective is balancing ventilation with heat retention. While beekeepers in mild climates can maintain open ventilation, those in frigid zones must prioritize eliminating drafts to ensure the colony can maintain its cluster temperature.

Strategy by Region

Managing Northern Winters

In regions with harsh winters, the primary recommendation is to close the screened bottom board.

The main threat to the colony in these areas is the presence of excessive cold drafts entering from below.

To mitigate this, you can insert the "sticky board" (often used for mite counting) to block the airflow.

Alternatively, some beekeepers in extremely frigid climates choose to physically remove the screened board and switch to a solid bottom board for the duration of the winter.

Managing Southern Winters

If you keep bees in a milder, southern region, the recommendations are far more flexible.

It is generally not essential to close the screen during the winter months in these climates.

The ambient temperatures rarely drop low enough to make the increased airflow dangerous to the hive cluster.

Understanding the Mechanics

The Function of the Insert

Many screened bottom boards come with a sliding insert, often called a mite count board or "sticky board."

In the context of winter preparation, this board serves as a draft blocker.

Inserting this board allows you to retain the convenience of a screened board year-round while mimicking the protection of a solid board during cold spells.

Ventilation vs. Drafts

The screen provides superior airflow, which is critical for reducing heat buildup in summer, but this becomes a liability in freezing weather.

While some northern beekeepers do choose to leave screens open, the consensus for maximum safety in cold regions leans toward restricting that airflow.

Closing the bottom reduces the "chimney effect" that can pull precious heat away from the winter cluster.

Making the Right Choice for Your Goal

If your primary focus is survival in a Northern climate: Close the screen using an insert or switch to a solid bottom board to eliminate freezing drafts.
If your primary focus is low-maintenance in a Southern climate: Leave the screened bottom board open, as the airflow poses minimal risk in mild weather.
If your primary focus is pest monitoring: Utilize the sticky board insert to block drafts while simultaneously assessing Varroa mite infestation levels.

Adapt your equipment configuration to the severity of your local weather to give your colony the best chance of spring success.

Summary Table:

Winter Condition	Region Type	Recommended Action	Primary Benefit
Harsh/Freezing	Northern	Close screen or use solid board	Eliminates drafts & retains cluster heat
Mild/Temperate	Southern	Leave screen open or use insert	Maintains ventilation with minimal risk
Pest Monitoring	All Regions	Use sticky board insert	Blocks airflow while tracking Varroa mites

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