Dear all,
I have used screened floors here in Scotland for the last ten years. Never
has there been any attempt to propolise the opening.
However the converse is definitely a different story. Any screening above
the bees is sealed off as fast as they can manage. I once bought a hive that
had a travelling screen on it as a crown-board or inner cover, which was
virtually completely sealed with propolis.
The message from my bees is quite clear. They don't want drafts above, but
are quite happy to have them below.
As the idea of screened floors spreads I would like to hear of colonies
sealing off the floor. I suspect I might have a long wait!
Wishing all a good season,
Pete.