Bee diarrhea in the latter part of winter and early spring is a malady
that effects some apiaries. The bees discharge their excrements over the
hives and combs, producing a dark appearance and offensive odor. The
cause is either fermented honey, improper food, long confinement, or too
warm and poorly ventilated quarters. Give them good capped honey and a
cleansing flight. If too cold for this out-of-doors take them into a
warm room, make a box, with the front and top made of wire cloth, or
mosquito netting, adjust it to the entrance, so that the bees must enter
it on leaving the hive. This will usually prove an effectual remedy.