How Is A Top Feeder Installed On A Langstroth Hive For Spring Feeding? Ensure Secure And Robber-Proof Colony Nutrition

To install a top feeder on a Langstroth hive, begin by placing the inner cover on the topmost box currently occupied by bees. Position the jar feeder directly over the central hole in the inner cover, then place an empty hive body around the feeder to enclose it before finishing with the outer cover.

This configuration creates a secure, internal feeding environment. By housing the feeder inside an empty box, you protect the syrup from the elements and allow bees to feed without leaving the safety of the hive.

The Correct Assembly Sequence

Preparing the Foundation

Ensure your colony is secure in its existing boxes. Place the inner cover directly on top of the highest box that currently contains bees. This serves as the platform for your feeding station.

Positioning the Feeder

Place the jar feeder (or double jar feeder) inverted over the central hole of the inner cover. The perforated lid of the jar should align with the hole, allowing bees to access the syrup from below.

Enclosing the System

Place an empty hive body (a deep or medium box with no frames) on top of the inner cover. This box acts as a shell, surrounding the feeder completely to shield it from wind, rain, and cold air.

Sealing the Hive

Place the outer cover on top of the empty hive body. This seals the unit, ensuring the feeder remains completely enclosed within the hive structure.

Understanding the Trade-offs

The Risk of Robbing

The primary reason to use a top feeder configuration is to mitigate robbing. Because the syrup is located deep inside the hive, the scent is contained, making it less likely to attract wasps or robber bees from other colonies.

Equipment Requirements

Using a top feeder requires having an spare empty hive body available. If you are limited on equipment, this method requires more resources than alternative feeding methods.

Top Feeder vs. Entrance Feeder

An alternative method mentioned in the references is the entrance feeder, which slides directly into the hive entrance. While easier to install, entrance feeders expose the syrup at the front door, significantly increasing the risk of robbing.

Making the Right Choice for Your Goal

To select the best feeding method for your spring setup, consider the following:

If your primary focus is colony security: Use the top feeder method described above, as it keeps syrup internal and significantly reduces the risk of robbing.
If your primary focus is minimizing equipment usage: You may consider an entrance feeder, but be aware that this increases the risk of attracting pests and robber bees.

Choose the method that balances your available equipment with the safety needs of your colony.

Summary Table:

Feature	Top Feeder (Internal)	Entrance Feeder
Installation Location	Over inner cover hole	Hive entrance slot
Robbing Risk	Low (Syrup is enclosed)	High (Scent is exposed)
Equipment Needed	Inner cover + Empty hive body	Feeder base
Weather Protection	Excellent (Fully shielded)	Minimal
Best Use Case	Spring build-up & security	Quick monitoring

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