If the space within the hive bodies is too expansive for the number of bees-will they have a difficult time keeping the colony warm? Is there ever a time when you reduce the number of brood boxes/supers? thanks.
Yes..,. You should strive to keep 60 to 90% of the hive populated. No more than 40% empty space, no less than 10% empty space. It can't always be done, but that should be your goal.
I would love to get a mentor's opinion on the health of our hive before cold weather sets in. Any chance of a visit sometime in early September?
You've been a great help to us in the past, and we certainly appreciate it.
One thing that would be helpful is if you are planning on doing mite treatments if needed, get your mite counts done (sticky board or sugar roll). That will tell a lot about your hive and Winter survival.