Yes, there is a valid risk of robbing when harvesting from a Flow Hive. While the system is designed to be non-intrusive, the specific mechanics of draining honey into an external container expose the strong scent and sight of fresh honey to the open air. This can attract opportunistic bees from neighboring hives, potentially triggering a robbing frenzy if left unchecked.
Core Takeaway Although the Flow Hive minimizes hive disturbance, the harvesting process creates a concentrated scent lure outside the hive box. However, because the honey flows through a directed tube, this risk is classified as a minor concern that is easily neutralized by sealing the gap between the extraction tube and your collection jar.
The Mechanics of the Risk
The Scent Trigger
The primary driver of robbing is the smell of open honey. In traditional beekeeping, opening the entire hive releases this scent.
With a Flow Hive, you do not open the hive body. However, as honey flows out of the discharge tube and into your jar, the aroma is released directly into the apiary. If nectar is scarce (a dearth), this scent can quickly attract robber bees.
The Point of Vulnerability
The Flow Hive mechanism involves splitting cells internally to allow honey to flow down sealed channels. This internal process is safe from robbers.
The vulnerability exists exclusively at the exit point. The connection between the harvest tube and the collection jar is typically the only place where honey is exposed to the environment.
Mitigating the Issue
Closing the Loop
The "simple and effective solution" referenced by experts involves eliminating the open air gap.
Instead of letting the honey drip through open air into an open jar, you should create a closed transfer system. This can be done by using a lid with a hole drilled for the tube, or simply wrapping plastic wrap around the tube and the jar opening.
Visual Concealment
Robber bees are also attracted by the sight of glistening honey.
In addition to managing the scent, keeping the collection area covered or inconspicuous helps prevent other bees from identifying the source of the food.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Misjudging the Flow Rate
A common mistake is assuming the flow will be slow and steady. When you turn the Flow Key, the honey may start slowly but can increase in rate rapidly.
If a jar overflows, you create a massive spill of honey on the ground. This is a catastrophic scent beacon that is almost guaranteed to incite robbing.
False Security
Do not assume that because the hive remains closed, you can leave the harvest unattended.
The "unintrusive" nature of the Flow Hive refers to the bees inside the colony. The external environment still requires the vigilance of the beekeeper.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
- If your primary focus is Pest Prevention: Ensure you create a seal between the discharge tube and the collection jar (e.g., plastic wrap or a custom lid) to eliminate scent leaks.
- If your primary focus is Efficient Harvesting: Monitor the jar constantly; do not walk away, as an overflow creates an immediate and severe robbing hazard.
By treating the external collection jar with the same caution you would a frame of open honey, you can harvest without conflict.
Summary Table:
| Potential Risk | Cause of Concern | Prevention Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Scent Lure | Honey aroma escaping from the collection jar | Use a lid with a tube hole or plastic wrap to seal the jar |
| Visual Attraction | Glistening honey visible to scout bees | Keep the collection area covered and out of direct sight |
| Honey Spills | Jar overflow during a rapid flow rate | Monitor jars constantly and never leave the harvest unattended |
| External Gaps | Exposure at the tube-to-jar connection | Create a closed-loop system to eliminate the open air gap |
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