The two most extensively utilized bee feeders in beekeeping are the frame feeder and the bucket (or can) gravity feeder. While there are several other variations—such as entrance feeders and top tray feeders—these two specific types are the standard for reliably supplementing a colony's diet.
The ideal feeder choice depends largely on your specific colony's temperament and the local climate. While frame feeders offer security inside the hive, bucket feeders utilize gravity for efficient delivery; understanding the mechanical differences between them is key to colony health.
The Frame Feeder: Internal Integration
This type of feeder is designed to sit directly inside the hive body, integrating seamlessly with the bees' living space.
How It Functions
A frame feeder effectively replaces one or two standard frames within the hive box. It is a container, typically made of plastic, that mimics the dimensions of a frame but acts as a reservoir for syrup.
Integration Benefits
Because it sits inside the hive, the syrup remains close to the warmth of the bee cluster. This is particularly beneficial in cooler weather, as it keeps the liquid at a temperature the bees can easily consume.
Security Against Robbing
Since the feed is completely internal, it is less likely to attract "robber bees" from other colonies or pests like wasps. The food source is hidden from the outside world, accessible only to the colony residing in that specific box.
The Bucket or Can Feeder: Gravity-Fed Efficiency
Also known as a "contact feeder" or "inverted pail," this device relies on physics to deliver nutrition.
The Gravity Mechanism
This feeder consists of a bucket or can filled with syrup and inverted over the hive. Small holes in the lid or a mesh screen allow bees to access the feed. Vacuum pressure and surface tension prevent the liquid from pouring out all at once.
Placement and Access
These are typically placed over the hole in the inner cover of the hive. An empty hive body is often placed around the bucket to protect it, with the outer cover placed on top.
Reduced Drowning Risk
Because bees feed through small openings or mesh from below, they are not immersing themselves in the liquid. This significantly reduces the risk of bees drowning, a common issue with open liquid sources.
Understanding the Trade-offs
No single feeder is perfect for every situation. You must weigh the merits and drawbacks of each system against your operational goals.
Disturbance Levels
Frame feeders require you to open the hive to refill them. This exposes the colony to the elements and disrupts their internal temperature regulation. In contrast, bucket feeders placed on the inner cover can often be refilled with minimal disturbance to the brood nest below.
Monitoring Ease
Top feeders and bucket feeders allow for easier checking of food levels. Frame feeders are hidden inside, meaning you often cannot gauge how much syrup is left without physically removing the frame or opening the box.
Volume and Capacity
Bucket feeders generally hold a large volume of syrup, making them ideal for rapid feeding in the fall. Frame feeders vary in size but occupy valuable real estate inside the hive that could otherwise be used for brood or honey storage.
Alternative Feeding Methods
While the frame and bucket feeders are the primary choices, supplementary contexts suggest other options are available depending on specific needs.
Entrance Feeders
This consists of an inverted jar resting on a base that slides into the hive entrance. While popular for beginners due to the ability to monitor levels from the outside, they are often criticized for triggering robbing behavior.
Top Tray Feeders
These are placed directly under the main lid. They provide a large surface area for feeding and hold significant quantities of syrup, functioning similarly to the bucket feeder but with a different form factor (a tray rather than a pail).
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
The "best" feeder is subjective and varies from one colony to the next. Use the following guide to determine which fits your current situation:
- If your primary focus is preventing robbery and maintaining heat: Choose the frame feeder to keep the food source internal and warm.
- If your primary focus is minimizing hive disturbance: Choose the bucket (gravity) feeder, which allows for refilling without fully exposing the colony.
Ultimately, successful feeding is about selecting the method that ensures your bees receive the necessary nutrition with the least amount of stress to the colony.
Summary Table:
| Feeder Type | Placement | Key Advantage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame Feeder | Internal (replaces frames) | Maintains heat; prevents robbing | Cool weather & security |
| Bucket (Gravity) Feeder | Top of hive (inverted) | Low disturbance; reduces drowning | Rapid feeding & ease of use |
| Entrance Feeder | Hive entrance | Easy monitoring from outside | Small colonies/Beginners |
| Top Tray Feeder | Under the lid | Large capacity; easy refills | High-volume supplemental feeding |
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