Episode 176 – Winter Hive Survival (Part 2): Smarter Insulation for Stronger Colonies 🧊🐝

In part two of my conversation with Minnesota beekeeper Peg DeSanto, we continue unpacking the science of overwintering and explore the research behind condensation, CO₂ balance, and hive insulation. Peg explains why matching hive size to colony strength matters, how smaller overwintering spaces improve survival, and how her Hive Hugger project was born from frustration, science, and a little bit of love.

What’s Inside This Episode:

Why bees can freeze even with honey inches awayThe real cause behind “starvation” deaths in winterHow matching hive space to colony size improves survivalWhat Seely’s natural cavity research reveals about hive volumeHow CO₂ and humidity help bees regulate metabolismHow the Hive Hugger insulation system was developed and testedWhy insulation values (R30 top, R10 sides) are critical for cold regions

Why Listen to This Episode?

You will hear the rest of Peg’s story and learn how modern insulation research and natural bee behavior combine to create a more effective, science-based approach to overwintering.

Limited offer at https://hivehugger.com , use code: BK4N for 11% off.

More Info:

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About the Podcast:

Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5 % podcast with over 600,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.

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