Hive-top Feeder Eases Care Locating the feeder at the bottom of the hive, and thus the cluster, makes it difficult for the bees to access the feeder at cooler temperatures. Dead bees also easily block the feeder access tube at the bottom. The hive-top feeder makes it much easier to maintain the bees at cooler temperatures. It is removable and can be used for providing water for air conditioning if shut-in on a hot day, sugar water for supplemental feeding, and administration of medications when needed. The hive top feeder is removable and is compatible either single or double width hives.
Every advantage seems to have corresponding disadvantages.
The flexibility offered by the turntable mounting and easy lift-off for maintenance opens an avenue for pranks of bumping the hive up and allowing bees to escape. We have provision for a lock-down that still allows the turntable to be rotated completely. This booklet covers setup alternatives and considerations for public displays, including displays managed by non-beekeepers. It is written for the non-beekeeping staff of museums and nature centers so they can evaluate the potential of establishing an educational observation hive at their facility. This booklet does not provide sufficient background to keep bees.