Top feeders are high-capacity feeding reservoirs designed to sit directly on top of the hive frames, fitting snugly underneath the hive’s outer cover. They are engineered to hold large volumes of syrup or dry sugar, serving as a primary method for supplemental feeding without exposing the colony to the elements.
The Bottom Line: Top feeders are the preferred choice for beekeepers prioritizing efficiency and hive health. Their design allows for substantial feed storage and safe refills without disrupting the colony's internal environment, solving the major maintenance bottlenecks found in other feeder types.
The Mechanics of Top Feeders
Strategic Placement
Unlike entrance feeders, a top feeder is positioned internally but above the main living quarters. It rests directly on the frames of the uppermost box, protected by the outer telescoping cover.
High-Volume Capacity
These feeders are built for bulk. A standard 10-frame model can hold up to three gallons of syrup, while 8-frame versions typically accommodate around two gallons.
Safety Design
Quality models address a common risk: bees drowning in syrup. They incorporate steel safety screens or specific access points that allow bees to feed without falling into the liquid reservoir.
Operational Advantages
Zero-Disturbance Refilling
The most significant advantage is the preservation of the hive atmosphere. You can top off the feeder by simply removing the outer cover. This eliminates the need to remove frames or expose the brood, keeping the colony calm and the internal temperature stable.
Reduced Maintenance Frequency
Because they hold 2 to 3 gallons of feed, you do not need to visit the hive daily. A single fill can last one to two weeks, making this an ideal solution for out-yards or busy beekeepers.
Seasonal Versatility
While primarily used for syrup, the top feeder design is adaptable. In early to mid-winter, they are excellent containers for feeding raw or dry white sugar, providing emergency carbohydrates when liquid syrup might freeze or spoil.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Comparison to Entrance (Boardman) Feeders
Entrance feeders are easy to monitor but have severe limitations. They have low capacity, encourage robbing by predator bees, and become inaccessible to the colony when temperatures drop (low 50s°F). Top feeders solve all three issues by being internal, high-capacity, and protected.
Comparison to Frame (Division Board) Feeders
Frame feeders sit inside the hive body, replacing a frame. While they keep syrup warm, they consume critical brood or storage space and require you to fully open the hive to refill them. Top feeders preserve your frame count and allow for less invasive management.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
- If your primary focus is efficiency: Choose a top feeder to maximize the time between refills and minimize labor.
- If your primary focus is colony health: Use a top feeder to prevent robbing and avoid chilling the brood during refills.
- If your primary focus is winter prep: Utilize the top feeder for dry sugar feeding to ensure resources are available during colder months.
By balancing capacity with accessibility, top feeders offer the most robust solution for sustaining a growing colony.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Top Feeder | Entrance Feeder | Frame Feeder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | High (2-4 Gallons) | Low (1 Quart) | Medium (1-2 Gallons) |
| Refill Effort | Very Low (No hive opening) | Low (External) | High (Must open hive) |
| Robbing Risk | Minimal (Internal) | High (At entrance) | Minimal (Internal) |
| Space Impact | Uses zero frame space | Uses zero frame space | Occupies 1-2 frame slots |
| Temperature | Protected by cover | Exposed to elements | Kept warm by bees |
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