Internal frame feeders offer superior colony defense and lower maintenance requirements compared to entrance feeders. Because the syrup is located deep inside the hive rather than at the front entrance, the colony can defend its resources more effectively against robber bees and wasps. Additionally, the larger volume of frame feeders significantly reduces the labor involved in keeping the colony fed.
Internal feeders prioritize hive security by minimizing the scent of syrup at the entrance, while their higher capacity improves management efficiency by reducing refill frequency.
The Mechanics of Colony Defense
Reducing Vulnerability to Robbing
Entrance feeders, also known as Boardman feeders, sit directly at the hive's main access point. This placement exposes the scent of sugar syrup to the outside world, effectively inviting robber bees and wasps to attack the colony.
Strategic Internal Placement
Internal frame feeders reside inside the hive body, replacing a standard frame. This forces any potential intruder to bypass the colony’s guard bees and enter the heart of the hive to access the food, making the syrup significantly easier to defend.
Mitigating Spill Risks
Spilling sugar water is a primary trigger for robbing frenzies, particularly during the summer dearth. Internal frame feeders are designed to contain the liquid securely within the hive, reducing the risk of accidental spills on the ground or landing board that often occur with external feeders.
Maintenance and Efficiency
High Capacity Reduces Labor
Beekeepers using entrance feeders often face the chore of daily refills due to the small size of the jars. Internal frame feeders generally hold a much higher capacity of syrup.
Less Frequent Disruptions
Because they hold more feed, internal feeders require less frequent attention. This allows you to extend the intervals between refills, saving time and reducing the number of times you must disturb the apiary environment.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Loss of Comb Space
While internal feeders excel in defense and capacity, they come with a structural cost. Because they are designed to fit into the hive body, they take the place of one or two hive frames.
Hive Management Implications
This reduction in frames means there is slightly less surface area available for the queen to lay eggs or for the colony to store honey. You must weigh the benefit of secure feeding against the temporary loss of comb real estate.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
To select the best feeder for your specific situation, consider your current priorities regarding hive security and available time:
- If your primary focus is preventing robbing: Choose an internal frame feeder to keep the syrup scent contained and force intruders to face the colony's internal defenses.
- If your primary focus is minimizing maintenance: Opt for an internal frame feeder to leverage its high capacity and reduce the number of trips required for refilling.
Internal frame feeders are the definitive choice for beekeepers seeking to maximize hive security while minimizing daily management effort.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Internal Frame Feeder | Entrance (Boardman) Feeder |
|---|---|---|
| Colony Defense | High (Deep inside hive) | Low (At hive entrance) |
| Robbing Risk | Minimal (Scent contained) | High (Scent attracts pests) |
| Capacity | Large (1-2 gallon typical) | Small (Quart-sized jar) |
| Refill Frequency | Low (Weekly or less) | High (Daily or frequent) |
| Comb Space | Reduces available frames | No impact on internal space |
| Best For | Commercial & large apiaries | Small hobbyist setups |
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