How to feed dry pollen to bees? Simple Methods for Healthy Colonies

Feeding dry pollen to bees is a straightforward process that can be done using open feeders, allowing bees to gather the pollen naturally. This method is simple and effective, as it mimics the bees' natural foraging behavior. Dry pollen can also be mixed with syrup or honey to create pollen patties, which are placed on the top bars of the hive. Timing is crucial when feeding pollen to ensure it aligns with the bees' brood-rearing cycle and natural pollen availability. Providing pollen supplements should be done when necessary, such as during a pollen dearth or when encouraging brood production.

Key Points Explained:

1. Methods of Feeding Dry Pollen:

   • Open Feeders: Dry pollen can be placed in open feeders, allowing bees to gather it naturally. This method is simple and mimics the bees' natural foraging behavior.
   • Pollen Patties: Dry pollen can be mixed with syrup or honey to create a dough-like consistency, which is then pressed between sheets of waxed paper to form patties. These patties are placed on the top bars of the hive, and a shim can be used to make room for them.

2. Timing of Pollen Feeding:

   • Alignment with Brood-Rearing Cycle: Pollen or pollen substitute should be fed when it is desirable for the bees to start rearing brood or when natural pollen availability is insufficient.
   • Avoid Premature Feeding: Feeding pollen too early, such as in late autumn or mid-winter, can lead to unnecessary brood rearing and resource consumption.

3. Purpose of Pollen Feeding:

   • Supporting Brood Production: Pollen supplements are used to encourage brood rearing and support colony health.
   • Addressing Pollen Dearth: Pollen feeding is essential during periods when natural pollen is scarce, ensuring the bees have the necessary nutrients for survival and growth.

4. Considerations for Pollen Substitute:

   • Availability: It is recommended to keep some pollen substitute on hand for emergencies, but it should only be used when necessary.
   • Necessity: Pollen substitute should not be used indiscriminately; it should be provided when there is a clear need, such as during a pollen dearth or when encouraging brood production.

5. Bee Pollen Collection Behavior:

   • Honey Bees: Honey bees collect pollen on their fuzzy bodies, which become positively charged with static electricity. They then wipe the pollen off their bodies using their hind legs, where stiff hairs called corbiculae or pollen baskets hold the pollen.
   • Other Bee Species: Bees in the Megachilidae family carry pollen on the long scopal hairs on their abdomens, while bees in the genus Hylaeus collect pollen in their crops or modified stomachs.

By understanding these key points, beekeepers can effectively feed dry pollen to their bees, ensuring the health and productivity of their colonies.

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