> I have a question that i've been trying to find a good answer for. Do the
> bees really need a landing board on the hive? Some beekeepers claim it's
> necessary because the bees are heavily loaded and tired when they return
and
> will fall down and die if there's no landing board. I still haven't seen
the
> pile of dead bees on any of my hives without the board, so i'm doubtful.

I noticed that on rather cool days a few returning bees will miss the
landing board and fall in front of the hive.  Most of them will take a while
to gather up their strength (regain temperature ?) and fly up again.  Some
will perish.  A landing board may save a few bees under such adverse
conditions.  In general, it's benefits may be neglible except that it's a
great tool for the beekeeper to observe the bees.

Waldemar