The round hive top feeder is designed for internal feeding of a single colony by placing it in an empty hive body positioned directly above the brood box. This setup allows bees to access the feed without leaving the hive, ensuring efficient and controlled feeding. The feeder includes an insert to minimize drowning risks, making it a safe option for liquid feeding. Unlike open feeding methods where multiple colonies can access the feed, this method restricts access to the intended colony, providing targeted nutrition.
Key Points Explained:
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Placement of the Round Hive Top Feeder
- The feeder is placed in an empty hive body, which is then positioned on top of the brood box. This internal placement ensures that only the single colony below has access to the feed.
- This method contrasts with open feeding, where the feeder is placed in a separate hive in the bee yard, allowing multiple colonies to access the feed.
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Purpose of Internal Feeding
- Internal feeding is ideal for providing targeted nutrition to a specific colony, such as during periods of low nectar flow or when supplemental feeding is required.
- The (in hive feeder)[/topic/in-hive-feeder] design minimizes interference from external factors like weather or robbing by other bees.
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Safety Features
- The feeder includes an insert that reduces the risk of bees drowning when liquid feed (e.g., sugar syrup) is used. This is critical for maintaining colony health during feeding.
- The enclosed design also helps prevent contamination and evaporation of the feed.
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Comparison with Open Feeding
- Open feeding, often used for pollen, involves placing the feeder in a separate hive accessible to all colonies in the yard. This is less controlled and can lead to competition or disease spread.
- Internal feeding with the round hive top feeder ensures the feed is reserved for the intended colony, promoting better hive management.
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Practical Considerations
- Beekeepers should ensure the empty hive body is clean and free of debris before placing the feeder.
- Regular monitoring of feed levels and bee activity is recommended to adjust feeding as needed.
By following these steps, beekeepers can effectively use the round hive top feeder to support their colonies with minimal risk and maximum efficiency.
Summary Table:
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Placement | Empty hive body positioned directly above the brood box. |
| Purpose | Targeted nutrition for a single colony during low nectar flow. |
| Safety Features | Insert minimizes drowning risks; enclosed design prevents contamination. |
| Comparison to Open Feeding | Restricts access to one colony, avoiding competition or disease spread. |
| Best Practices | Ensure clean hive body; monitor feed levels and bee activity regularly. |
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