I am a brand new bee keeper and have had an awesome summer starting two hives. Both hives are three supers deep and have been looking strong. But today there were dead bees around the base of the hives (about 10) and I saw hardly a bee fly out of the hive.

It is an overcast day, and usually I check my bees on sunny days. When I checked on the bees I was relieved to see they still looked strong in number. But many were fanning themselves even though it is not a hot day.

I'm not sure how much I am supposed to worry about my bees! I worry a lot! And I'm also not sure what I can do to ensure their health. I have mite strips that I haven't used yet...I was going to wait until it was officially "fall weather" which may actually be this weekend...

I would be so grateful for any advice!
Joyfully,
Becca