Full podcast: https://lovethenorth.ca/article/250502-beekeeping-in-north When winter arrives in Northern Ontario and temperatures plunge well below freezing, have you ever wondered what happens to the bees? Not all bees survive winter the same way, and the difference between honeybees and our native pollinators is fascinating! In this episode of Love the North, we explore the incredible world of beekeeping and how these tiny creatures have developed remarkable strategies to survive our harsh northern climate. Many native pollinators, including solitary bees, survive winter in protected locations such as underground nests, hollow stems, or cavities in wood. Depending on the species, they may overwinter as eggs, larvae, pupae, or adults. Honeybees, however, have a completely different strategy. Unlike many native bees, honeybees survive winter together as a colony inside their hive. As temperatures drop, thousands of worker bees gather tightly around their queen, forming a living cluster. By vibrating their flight muscles, they generate heat and work together to keep the colony alive. They survive on honey stored during the warmer months, moving through the hive as a group to access their food reserves. Imagine surviving a Northern Ontario winter without a furnace, electricity, or winter clothing — relying entirely on teamwork, preparation, and stored food! But honeybees aren't our only important pollinators. Native bees, butterflies, flies, and other insects also play essential roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Understanding how different pollinators survive helps us appreciate why protecting their habitats matters. From backyard gardens to local farms, these remarkable creatures contribute to the health of our environment and food supply. #LoveTheNorth #Beekeeping #Honeybees #Pollinators #NorthernOntario #Sudbury #Nature #Biodiversity