A Boardman Feeder, also known as an entrance feeder, is a simple yet effective device used in beekeeping to provide bees with supplemental sugar water or water. It consists of a mason jar with a perforated lid, attached to a wooden base, and is placed at the hive entrance. This design allows bees to access the liquid feed without the need for frequent hive disturbances. While easy to use, it has some drawbacks, such as potentially attracting robbers from other hives, making alternative feeders like top feeders preferable in certain scenarios.
Key Points Explained:
-
Definition and Components
- A Boardman Feeder is a type of entrance feeder designed for beehives.
- It includes:
- A mason jar (typically a regular-mouth size) to hold sugar water or water.
- A perforated lid (70 mm diameter) that allows bees to access the liquid.
- A wooden base that stabilizes the jar and attaches it to the hive entrance.
-
How It Works
- The feeder is placed at the front of the hive, allowing bees to enter and exit while accessing the feed.
- The perforated lid enables controlled dripping of the liquid, ensuring bees can drink without drowning.
- Beekeepers can easily refill the jar by unscrewing it from the base, and an extra cap can be kept for quick replacements.
-
Advantages
- Simplicity: Easy to assemble, fill, and clean.
- Accessibility: Bees can access feed without needing to open the hive, reducing stress on the colony.
- Cost-Effective: Uses standard mason jars, making replacements affordable.
-
Disadvantages
- Robbing Risk: The exposed location may attract bees from other hives, leading to competition or theft of resources.
- Weather Sensitivity: Rain or wind can affect the feeder’s functionality if not properly shielded.
-
Alternatives
- Top Feeders: Placed inside the hive, reducing robbing risks and protecting feed from weather.
- Frame Feeders: Fit directly into the hive but require hive opening for refilling.
-
Best Use Cases
- Ideal for new colonies or emergency feeding when quick access is needed.
- Less suitable for long-term use or in areas with high robbing activity.
For beekeepers prioritizing convenience and minimal hive disturbance, the Boardman Feeder is a practical choice, though alternatives may be better for sustained feeding.
Summary Table:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | Entrance feeder for beehives using a mason jar, perforated lid, and base. |
| How It Works | Placed at hive entrance; bees access sugar water/water via dripping lid. |
| Advantages | Simple, cost-effective, minimizes hive disturbance. |
| Disadvantages | Risk of robbing, weather-sensitive. |
| Best For | New colonies, emergency feeding. |
| Alternatives | Top feeders (reduced robbing), frame feeders (internal placement). |
Upgrade your beekeeping setup with the right feeder—contact HONESTBEE for wholesale solutions tailored to commercial apiaries and distributors!
