The combination of perforated plastic bags and wooden trays functions as a high-efficiency feeding system by creating a controlled interface between the liquid syrup and the colony. By placing a bag pierced with small holes onto a supporting tray above the hive frames, beekeepers allow bees to extract liquid via suction, eliminating the need for open pools of syrup.
This system addresses the primary risks of liquid feeding: safety and spoilage. By restricting access to micro-perforations supported by a rigid structure, it prevents bee mortality while preserving the feed's chemical integrity.
The Mechanics of the System
The Role of the Perforated Bag
The plastic bag serves as a sealed reservoir for the liquid feed. Small holes punctured in the plastic allow the syrup to surface only when subjected to the suction of the bees.
This mechanism ensures that the liquid is released "on demand." The bees access the feed as needed, rather than contending with a free-flowing or open liquid source.
The Function of the Wooden Tray
The wooden tray provides the necessary physical foundation for the system. Placed directly above the hive frames, it supports the weight of the full bag.
This structure ensures the feed remains in a fixed, stable position. It prevents the bag from shifting or sagging into the hive, guaranteeing that worker bees have consistent, easy access to the perforation points.
Operational Advantages
Preventing Bee Mortality
One of the most significant dangers in liquid feeding is the risk of bees drowning in the syrup. Open feeders often result in high worker mortality.
The perforated bag system eliminates this risk entirely. Because the bees suck liquid through small holes rather than entering a vessel, they can feed without the possibility of immersion.
Reducing Feed Spoilage
Liquid feed is susceptible to degradation when exposed to open air. Oxygen can cause the syrup to oxidize or ferment, rendering it wasted.
The plastic bag minimizes the feed's surface area exposure to air. This containment significantly reduces loss due to oxidation, keeping the feed fresh until the colony consumes it.
Understanding the Constraints
Requirement for Rigid Support
While simple, this system relies heavily on the wooden tray. The bag cannot function safely as a standalone unit directly on the frames.
Without the rigid support of the tray, the heavy liquid bag could deform. This ensures the mechanical separation between the bulk weight of the feed and the delicate comb structure below.
Making the Right Choice for Your Hive
To implement this system effectively, align your approach with your specific management goals:
- If your primary focus is colony safety: Adopt this system to instantly neutralize the risk of drowning, which is common with frame or open-trough feeders.
- If your primary focus is resource efficiency: Use the sealed bag technique to extend the shelf-life of your syrup and minimize waste caused by environmental exposure.
This method represents a shift from passive feeding to a controlled, high-safety delivery system.
Summary Table:
| Component | Primary Function | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Perforated Plastic Bag | Sealed reservoir for liquid syrup | Prevents bee drowning and reduces oxidation/spoilage |
| Micro-Perforations | On-demand liquid release via suction | Eliminates open syrup pools and messy spills |
| Wooden Tray | Rigid structural support above frames | Prevents bag sagging and ensures stable access for bees |
| Suction Mechanism | Natural feeding interface | Allows bees to feed safely without risk of immersion |
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References
- Masaquiza Diego, Usca Julio. Evaluation of amino-vit as a supplement in the feeding of melifera bee (Apis mellifera). DOI: 10.18502/espoch.v2i5.11725
This article is also based on technical information from HonestBee Knowledge Base .
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