A "fat bee" isn't just one that ate too much honey. In beekeeping, "fat" refers to the , a vital organ in the bee's abdomen that functions similarly to a human liver.
: While "skinny" summer bees only live about 4–6 weeks, "fat" winter bees (also called diutinus bees) can live up to 6–9 months to see the colony through the cold season. Fat Bees Skinny Bees
Understanding the difference between a "fat" bee and a "skinny" one is often the deciding factor in whether your colony thrives through the spring or collapses before the first thaw. What is a "Fat Bee"? A "fat bee" isn't just one that ate too much honey
: These fat stores allow nurse bees to produce high-quality royal jelly to feed the first generation of spring larvae even before the first flowers bloom. The Perils of the "Skinny Bee" Understanding the difference between a "fat" bee and
Skinny bees are the standard forgers of summer. They are built for speed and efficiency, not longevity. However, a colony becomes dangerously "skinny" when it lacks nutritional resources during critical times. Pollen is Vital to Honey Bee Health and Survival