In a message dated 19/04/03 05:05:11 GMT Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

<<
 >>
Kathy,

An observation hive is a very stressful and unnatural environment for bees.
On the other hand they are a very useful tool for the beekeeper to observe
what bees do under these conditions and relate it to what they do in more
normal circumstances.

I have built, but not yet put into use, a compromise version which consists
of a lower stratum which is a 4 frame nuc on a mesh floor.  The upper stratum
is a single frame between perspex walls and to which the bees have access
through a strip of queen excluder. There is provision for feeding from the
top. The finger sided entrance hole has a closure that can be padlocked shut.
 This for use when moving or exhibiting it to avoid accidents.

In use a frame of interest, usually the one with the queen, is exchanged with
one of the four from below. and placed in the observation storey.  A sheet of
white card can be placed under the mesh floor to see what drops and therefore
give some insight into what is happening in the hidden parts above.

There is a similar version in Thornes' catalogue (on line) but it doesn't
have my added design features and costs a small fortune.  I build mine from
scrap except for the perspex which I bought.

Chris

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
-- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/BEE-L for rules, FAQ and  other info ---
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::