To maximize efficacy, winter patties must be placed directly in the path of the colony's natural upward movement. Specifically, you should flatten the patty and lay it directly on top of the frames, positioned immediately above the location of the bee cluster.
The success of winter feeding depends entirely on accessibility; in cold temperatures, bees will not break their thermal cluster to forage in distant corners of the hive. The food source must be in direct contact with the warmth of the colony.
Strategic Placement Principles
Locating the Cluster
The most critical factor is alignment with the colony. You must identify exactly where the bees are clustering within the hive body.
Place the patty on the top bars of the frames directly over this cluster. This ensures that as the heat from the bees rises, it keeps the patty accessible and soft enough for consumption.
Preparation for Installation
Before placing the patty, ensure it is flattened. A flattened profile prevents the patty from obstructing the hive cover or creating large air gaps that could chill the colony.
Laying the patty flat also increases the surface area available to the bees. This allows more bees to feed simultaneously without leaving the safety of the cluster.
Vertical Clearance
While the patty sits on the frames, you must ensure the outer components of the hive still close properly.
If the flattened patty is still thick, you may need a spacer or a deep rim inner cover. This provides the necessary headspace so the hive roof remains sealed against the elements.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Misalignment with the Colony
Do not simply place the patty in the center of the box if the bees are clustered against a side wall.
If the food is even a few inches away from the cluster during a hard freeze, it becomes useless. The bees will starve rather than break their formation to travel across cold frames to reach it.
Disruption During Placement
Speed is essential when opening a hive in winter. Have your patty flattened and ready before you crack the propolis seal.
Place the patty and close the hive immediately to retain the colony's valuable heat.
Ensuring Winter Survival
Correct placement is about minimizing the energy the bees must expend to eat.
- If your primary focus is immediate consumption: Place the flattened patty directly over the center of the visible bee cluster to maximize heat transfer and access.
- If your primary focus is equipment compatibility: Ensure the patty is thin enough to fit under the inner cover or use a shim to prevent breaking the hive's thermal seal.
Positioning the food where the bees are, rather than where you want them to be, is the key to winter feeding success.
Summary Table:
| Placement Factor | Recommended Action | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Directly over the bee cluster | Ensures access without breaking the thermal cluster. |
| Profile | Flattened and thin | Increases surface area and prevents hive cover gaps. |
| Contact | Touching top bars of frames | Utilizes rising heat to keep the patty soft and edible. |
| Clearance | Use a spacer or shim if needed | Maintains the hive's seal to prevent heat loss. |
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