Filbert or hazelnut (Corylus spp.)

This week’s relatively warm, clear forecast is good news for the bees in my valley.  They have been flying for a few days now, despite bouts of overcast mist, diligently bringing in load after load of filbert pollen.  This fresh influx of high-quality pollen will help fuel the brood production that kicks up after winter solstice, hopefully resulting in a strong field force by the time our first major nectar flows arrive.  The bees in the filbert pictured to the right were loudly buzzing for hours with a frenetic intensity that reminded me of Costco on a Saturday afternoon.  As long as the mild, clear weather holds. alder and willow will also provide some excellent early season nutrition.  Go bees, go!