Because there still were many mites when I checked my second treatment, I decided a third treatment was necessary so today was the day! I will go check on the bottom board on Thursday morning, three days after the treatment and do a count then. I expect it'll be much better.
This morning was cold enough that the bees didn't all come storming out of the hive when I inserted the acid wand. And so I was able to treat all but a handful who managed to escape. That was better than the last time when it may have been too warm and that's when they like to be out.
I also added a piece of insulation to the top cover and covered that with a board that'll help protect them from rain or snow getting into the hive. It forms a little roof over their entrance and further helps to insulate them.
Afterwards I unplugged the hole in the hive to give them ventilation.
I don't think I will wrap the hive with roofing paper this year, but will add an thick insulation board to the left side of the hive and probably pick up another bale of straw to hold it in place and help to insulate that side. The right side of the hive already has a bale of straw and I will move it a bit closer to the hive as well.
Then I can be done for now.
