When should burr comb on the tops of frames be removed? Best Practices for Hive Maintenance

Burr comb on the tops of frames should be removed at the end of a hive inspection to minimize disruption to the bees. The best practice is to use a flat blade (like a hive tool) at a low angle, scraping only the necessary comb to avoid harming bees or damaging the frames. This approach maintains hive cleanliness while reducing stress on the colony.

Key Points Explained:

1. Timing of Removal: End of Inspection

   • Removing burr comb at the end of an inspection ensures minimal disturbance to the bees.
   • Bees are already agitated during inspections, so delaying comb removal prevents additional stress.

2. Tool and Technique: Flat Blade at Low Angle

   • A hive tool or flat blade is ideal for scraping burr comb efficiently.
   • Holding the tool at a low angle helps avoid damaging the frames or injuring bees beneath the comb.

3. Selective Removal: Only What’s Necessary

   • Not all burr comb needs removal—focus on excess comb that obstructs frame movement or hive maintenance.
   • Leaving some comb may reduce the bees’ need to rebuild, saving their energy.

4. Avoiding Harm to Bees

   • Gentle scraping prevents crushing bees, which can release alarm pheromones and escalate aggression.
   • Careful removal reduces the risk of damaging brood or stored honey in adjacent cells.

5. Hive Hygiene and Maintenance

   • Regular removal prevents messy buildup, making future inspections easier.
   • Clean frames improve hive organization and reduce the likelihood of pests or mold.

By following these steps, beekeepers can maintain hive health while minimizing stress on the colony. Have you considered how burr comb removal frequency might vary by season or hive strength?

Summary Table:

Need durable hive tools or expert advice? Contact HONESTBEE today for wholesale beekeeping supplies tailored to commercial apiaries and distributors.