Same Fem Downy Woodpecker, nothing else. I here birds twittering and chirping, IDK. Fresh seed and suet. Haven't even seen nor heard the resident Cardinals.
Never had it freeze, taken it all the way till Thanksgiving. Our temps start staying in the 20s, days high 30s low 40s. Can actually feel the heat when I remove feeder jars if I place back of my hand over access to the jar. Do get some dys in the mid to high 50s in Dec and Jan. Can get a quick...
Well, the little wenches ain't done yet. Mixing up another 3 gallons. Nighttime temps bumping the freezing mark, with the 2" insulation no worry about syrup freezing. Mid-day temps still high 50s low 60sF and the activity is high. The longer they can get out the better I feel about winter survival.
I would lean towards absconding since you were completely empty with a few dead bees. I doubt robbing as there would be more than a few dead bees. They will take all the honey they can carry. Bad time of year for them to start anew unless they found abandoned comb somewhere.
Here in Jersey you can have 3 hives per 1/4 acre, over an acre, 3 per 1/4 acre not to exceed 40 hives. No fee but hives have to be registered with the NJDA, fees based on number of hives (commercial). It is written in the regulations that beekeepers are encouraged to join New Jersey Beekeepers...
Now that the bees are paying their way DW said might be a good idea to add another hive. "OK, if you really think we should." I said trying not to do my happy dance. AHHH, life's little victories. :D
Mid 40s have dropped to mid 30s and below, Time to wrap the boxes. Still taking syrup, have to watch them though. Rather they take the syrup, to early for the solid blocks. have the top insulation shimmed 1/8" for venting of condensation.