Jane
 
I've used 3 types: 3 frames horizontally (like a nuc), one frame, or 4 frames
vertically. I've seen the glass-walled box in use, but as expected, the bee
cluster stays secluded in the interior, and not much is visible until the
population is very large and they work the outer walls.
 
Of the 3 I've tried, the 4 frame vertical is the best permanent setup: all
surfaces are visible, and there is enough space for a fairly viable population.
You may still have to service the hive (add or remove bees/food). The single is
OK for a few days, but quickly runs short of food or space.
 
Good luck with it, I learned a lot from 2 or 3 years with an observation hive in
my bedroom.
 
 
Kerry Clark, Apiculture Specialist
B.C. Ministry of Agriculture
1201 103 Ave
Dawson Creek B.C.
        V1G 4J2  CANADA          Tel (604) 784-2225     fax (604) 784-2299
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