When using entrance feeders, beekeepers must balance convenience with colony safety. These feeders provide accessible nutrition but risk triggering robbing behavior—especially during nectar scarcity or with weaker hives. Strategic timing (like cooler hours), proper placement, and supplemental deterrents (reduced entrances) can mitigate risks while ensuring colonies receive essential nourishment.
Key Points Explained:
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Understanding Robbing Risks
- Entrance feeders expose syrup/honey at the hive's entrance, making it detectable by neighboring colonies.
- Weak hives or periods of nectar dearth (e.g., late summer) heighten vulnerability to robbing.
- Robbing can decimate a colony’s stores and spread disease.
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Optimal Usage Timing
- Deploy feeders early morning/late evening when bee activity is lower, reducing robbing visibility.
- Avoid use during peak foraging hours or prolonged nectar shortages.
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Feeder Design Considerations
- An entrance feeder typically includes an external jar and tray inserted into the hive entrance.
- Pros: Low-cost, easy refills, ideal for spring water supplementation.
- Cons: Open design invites pests/robbers; syrup spills can escalate robbing.
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Mitigation Strategies
- Reduce the entrance: Use a narrow opening or robbing screen to hinder intruders.
- Internal alternatives: Transition to frame or top feeders for sustained feeding without exposure.
- Clean spills promptly: Wipe leaked syrup to avoid attracting external bees.
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Colony-Specific Adjustments
- Strong colonies may defend feeders better, but monitor aggression.
- For weak hives, prioritize hive strength (e.g., combine colonies) before relying on entrance feeders.
By aligning feeder use with environmental conditions and hive health, beekeepers can safely support colonies while minimizing disruptive behaviors.
Summary Table:
| Precaution | Key Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Use early morning/late evening | Reduces visibility to robbers during low-activity periods. |
| Feeder Design | Opt for models with spill-resistant trays | Minimizes syrup leaks that attract pests. |
| Entrance Control | Narrow hive entrance or add robbing screens | Limits access for intruders while allowing resident bees to feed. |
| Spill Management | Clean leaked syrup immediately | Prevents robbing triggers and disease spread. |
| Colony Strength | Prioritize internal feeders (e.g., frame/top feeders) for weak hives | Reduces exposure to robbers until hive recovers. |
Need tailored advice on hive feeders? Contact HONESTBEE for expert guidance on protecting your apiary. We supply beekeepers and distributors with high-quality, robbing-resistant solutions.
