Re: Cheap In-Hive feeding
 
In answer to a question from Logan VanLeigh
Mike Griggs wrote:
> I feed by placing an extra deep super on top of my 2 box overwintering
> hive.  Then using gallon jars inverted (12-15 small holes in the lid) over
> the hole in the inner cover I can feed without disturbing the colony.  I
> leave this setup in place with the outer cover on the extra deep super so
> first thing in february or march I can start feeding as needed.  However I
> leave a heavy rock or cinderblock on the top to prevent wind blow outs and
> use a small patch to cover the hole during the deep dark winter(also
> prevents mouse entrance).
 
Hei!
I wish it was as easy as that! Here it is too cold to leave a feeding
chamber on over winter without really good insulation (overcomeable)
and I have doubts about the rock on top working in our winter storms.
 
I would like too ask a subsidiary question:
Given that it is v. early in spring and the bees have not emerged yet
how do most people check (if they do) on amount of stores left?
Look in when it is still very cold? Use a weighing system? or what?
 
I would make the effort to think out and construct a ready mounted
"feeder interface" to leave on over the winter if I could reach a
conclusion about the best method of checking stores. Oh yes, as an
addition the same "interface" should allow introduction of pollen
substitute-sugar patties to get hive development going early.
 
Cheers Tony. (63deg 26min North, 10 deg 45min East)
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Anthony N. Morgan (Tony)                 Fax: +47 73 89 62 86
"Stavshagen"                          E-mail: [log in to unmask]
Midtsandan                               Sor-Trondelag College
7563 MALVIK                              Elec. Eng. Department
Norway                                   7005 TRONDHEIM, Norway
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