Metro Propolis wrote: "It's my observation that there is a correlation 
between bigger populations, more stores, and increased defensiveness.   
Given that Top bar hives are of a fixed size, with limited room for 
surplus, this particular condition is never met. Top bar keepers 
frequently interpret this as a sign that bees are "happier" in a TBH."

Consider this from the bees' point of view: the family/household/city 
is functioning well and is prosperous with all the family going about 
their business.  It has been a good year and we have managed to tuck 
away plenty of stores for the approaching winter.  Mum has slowed down 
her laying a bit now and she isn't as young as she used to be.  With so 
many bees in the hive we aren't all getting our full daily dose of the 
'happiness fix' she gives us, that we all love. Suddenly there is a 
smell of smoke!  We may have to evacuate!  Head for some open cells and 
get a crop full of nectar to keep us going and help re-establish if 
necessary!  Drat, most of the cells are now sealed over so we can't all 
get some.

Then the hive shakes! Earthquake!  Next, light shines in through the 
ceiling!  All our comforting household scents that tell us what's going 
on where are swirled around and away so we don't know what's happening 
any more!  Then we see movements overhead!  Are we under attack?  There 
is an almighty crack and our home judders as our nice propolis draught 
excluder is snapped and the upper layer of our home is whisked away.  
We see the moving body more clearly now, and, through the smoke, can 
get it's aroma: mammal! Enemy! Defend ourselves at once or it will 
destroy us and eat our babies and our stores!  Attack!  Attack!

With the TBH, things happen much more gently and only the bees on the 
comb you are looking at know you are there.

Chris

  

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