@keepinbees: This is a process called “bearding.” If the hive gets too hot, bees congregate outside to allow the hive to ventilate. They also fan their wings to cool the surrounding area. The main purpose of this is to maintain the hive at a temperature between 90-97F (the ideal temp for raising brood). Bees exhibit this behavior during times of extreme heat, like in the summertime. It’s very different than swarming, which is when bees leave en masse to find a new home. #keepinbees #honeybees #bearding