This may be a late reply about placinf hives in sun or shade. Where to feral bees and wild bees place their nests. Usually in shaded or wooded areas I believe. Could this be a lead. However my best performing hive gets the most sun of my measly three hives. I m trying a new location next here for one hive in an area partially enclosed in a high stone wall . It is partially shades so it does not get very hot, and in the winter is better protected from the wind and snow.