Creating an entrance feeder for bees is a practical way to provide supplemental nutrition during times when natural resources are scarce. This type of feeder is typically placed at the entrance of the hive, allowing bees easy access to sugar syrup or other liquid feed. While it is a simple and cost-effective solution, it does come with certain limitations, such as the need for frequent refills and the potential to attract pests or encourage hive robbing. Below is a step-by-step guide to making an entrance feeder, along with an explanation of its purpose and considerations.

Key Points Explained:

1. Materials Needed:

   • A rectangular metal pan: This serves as the base of the feeder, holding the sugar syrup or liquid feed.
   • A plastic top: This covers the metal pan and provides a surface for bees to access the feed.
   • Folded hardware cloth: This acts as a pathway for bees to reach the syrup while preventing them from drowning.

2. Construction Steps:

   • Step 1: Prepare the Metal Pan: Ensure the metal pan is clean and free of any residues that could harm the bees.
   • Step 2: Cut a Rectangle in the Plastic Top: Using a sharp tool, cut a rectangular opening in the plastic top. This opening should be large enough to accommodate the folded hardware cloth.
   • Step 3: Insert the Hardware Cloth: Fold the hardware cloth into a tapered shape and insert it into the rectangular opening. The tapered design allows bees to walk down safely to access the syrup.
   • Step 4: Assemble the Feeder: Place the plastic top securely over the metal pan, ensuring the hardware cloth is properly positioned.

3. Placement and Use:

   • Position the feeder at the entrance of the hive, making it easily accessible to the bees.
   • Fill the metal pan with sugar syrup or another liquid feed. Ensure the syrup is at an appropriate concentration (e.g., 1:1 sugar-to-water ratio for spring feeding or 2:1 for fall feeding).
   • Monitor the feeder regularly to check syrup levels and refill as needed.

4. Advantages of Entrance Feeders:

   • Ease of Access: Bees can access the feeder without needing to leave the hive, which is particularly beneficial during cold or rainy weather.
   • Cost-Effective: Entrance feeders are relatively inexpensive to make and use.
   • Simplicity: They are easy to construct and maintain, making them a popular choice for beekeepers.

5. Disadvantages and Considerations:

   • Small Vessel Size: The limited capacity of entrance feeders requires frequent refilling, which can be time-consuming.
   • Pest Attraction: The exposed syrup can attract ants, wasps, or other pests. To mitigate this, consider using ant moats or placing the feeder on a stand.
   • Hive Robbing: The presence of an entrance feeder can trigger robbing behavior, where bees from other colonies attempt to steal the syrup. To reduce this risk, avoid overfilling the feeder and use entrance reducers to limit access.

6. Best Practices:

   • Timing: Use entrance feeders primarily during times of nectar scarcity, such as early spring or late fall.
   • Hygiene: Clean the feeder regularly to prevent mold or bacterial growth, which could harm the bees.
   • Observation: Monitor the hive’s behavior to ensure the feeder is not causing stress or attracting unwanted pests.

By following these steps and considerations, you can create an effective entrance feeder for your bees, providing them with the necessary support during challenging times while minimizing potential drawbacks.

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