>What is a "top bar hive" ?  I've seen these mentioned several times
>but I don't know what they are.
>
>TIA,
>Brian Myers
>Norman, Oklahoma, USA
 
A top-bar hive is of relatively simple design. It is a long box across
which are laid top-bars, about 30 or so in number.  The bees construct
their combs one per top bar.  They only attach the comb at the top, to the
bar.  The sides and bottoms of the combs are only minimally attached, or
not at all.  Each comb is removable, by loosening and lifting its top-bar.
This is a popular "transitional" hive in some developing countries, notably
in eastern Africa.  The colony is encouraged to build a straight, even comb
from each bar, by the apiarist affixing a beeswax strip across the length
of its underside.
 
The bars are 1 3/8" wide or so, so that only one comb is built on each.
Also the top bars are arranged with no spaces between them, so they
effectively form a cover across the hive.  The nice thing about this is
that the only bees exposed are on the bar(s) being inspected.  This helps
keep the bees docile.  The main disadvantage to these hives is the fragile
nature of the combs.  Since they are "natural," without being supported by
frames/wire/foundation, they require extra care to avoid breaking them.  I
have utilized variations of this type of hive, and have found that after a
season or two the brood combs become very durable, and then there is not
much danger of them being damaged during normal inspections.  Initially,
tho' you just have to handle them gently.
 
I would recommend to anyone to try one of these hives out, as it is a real
education, enjoyable and fascinating,  observing the colony nest
construction and growth "au natural."  Inspecting the hives is easy, and
doesn't require much protection, normally.  It is not as intrusive as
taking apart a multi-story standard hive. The bees tend to just keep going
about their business.
Harvesting is easy with these hives (just cut the honeycombs from the top
bars, leaving a little leftover to serve as a guide for the new combs).
 
Our resident Bee-L veteran on these hives is James Satterfield, who has
built several and is experiencing much success with them.   He sent me some
wonderful photos of his neat, orderly apiaries. I look forward to stocking
several new TB hives next spring.      I hope this overview is helpful.
There are references on TB hive construction and use available on the Web
(just where I don't recall -- Jim?).   JG