The round hive top feeder is a highly versatile tool capable of dispensing both liquid and dry nutrition to your colonies. Specifically, it is designed to hold sugar syrup, dry sugar, or dry pollen substitute, depending on how you configure the components.
The key to this feeder's versatility lies in the assembly: use the included insert for liquid syrup to prevent drowning, or remove the top cover entirely to allow bees direct access to dry sugar or pollen.
Configuring for Liquid Nutrition
Feeding Sugar Syrup
The primary use for this device is feeding sugar syrup during dearths or to stimulate brood rearing.
To do this safely, you must install the included insert. This component limits the bees' exposure to the liquid, allowing them to feed without the risk of drowning.
Configuring for Dry Nutrition
Feeding Dry Sugar
When temperatures drop or moisture becomes a concern, you may prefer to feed dry sugar.
To configure the feeder for solids, leave the top cover off. This allows the bees to climb directly into the reservoir to access and process the sugar granules.
Feeding Dry Pollen
This feeder is also effective for providing dry pollen substitute to boost protein intake.
Just as with dry sugar, you must remove the top cover. This gives the bees the necessary space to collect the pollen dust and transport it back into the hive.
Compatibility and Usage Scenarios
Equipment Fit
Regardless of what you are feeding, this unit is designed to fit a wide range of hive configurations.
It is compatible with deep, medium, or shallow boxes, and fits both 8-frame and 10-frame setups.
Open Feeding Strategy
In some scenarios, you may wish to feed the entire apiary rather than a specific colony.
To use this feeder for open feeding (specifically for pollen), place the container inside an empty hive body within your bee yard. This creates a protected station where bees from all colonies can forage.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
- If your primary focus is seasonal stimulation: Use the insert and fill the feeder with sugar syrup to simulate a nectar flow.
- If your primary focus is winter or emergency feeding: Remove the top cover and fill the reservoir with dry sugar to manage moisture and prevent starvation.
- If your primary focus is herd health: Place the uncovered feeder with pollen in an empty hive box to supplement protein for the entire yard.
By adjusting the assembly of the round hive top feeder, you can meet the nutritional needs of your bees in any season.
Summary Table:
| Feed Type | Configuration Required | Best Usage Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar Syrup | With Protective Insert | Seasonal stimulation & brood rearing |
| Dry Sugar | No Top Cover | Winter feeding & moisture management |
| Dry Pollen | No Top Cover | Protein supplementation & herd health |
| Open Feeding | Inside Empty Hive Body | Supporting the entire apiary yard |
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