In this BTP Short, Jeff and Becky welcome back Dara Scott of HiveAlive to share the results of a recent customer survey on overwintering success during the devastating 2024–25 winter. While national losses reported by Project Apis m averaged around 60%, HiveAlive users reported losses less than half that rate—about 23%. Dara explains how HiveAlive’s unique seaweed extract, combined with lemongrass and thymol, helps support colony health, reduce Nosema levels, and improve overwintering outcomes.

The conversation also touches on HiveAlive’s origin story, the science behind seaweed extracts in animal nutrition, and the importance of fall feeding to maximize health benefits throughout winter. Dara and Becky discuss survey methodology, beekeeper management styles, and surprising findings—such as queen losses being the most common challenge among otherwise well-managed colonies.

Listeners will also hear about HiveAlive’s customer newsletter and Dara’s plans to make complex research more accessible to everyday beekeepers. This episode highlights both the science and the beekeeper experiences that make HiveAlive a compelling option for supporting colony survival and strength.

Websites and Links mention in the episode:

HiveAlive Winter Survival Survey - https://usa.hivealivebees.com/blogs/news/hivealive-survey-results-for-beekeeping-over-winter-success

 

Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.

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Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

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