A Langstroth top feeder is a great way to store sugar and syrup for your birds. This type of feeder is easy to fill and will hold a lot of sugar. They are also simple to use and make a great gift.
Easy to fill
A hive top feeder is an easy to fill, albeit simple, gadget that keeps bees in check while still allowing you to feed your colony on a regular basis. Using a top feeder allows you to eliminate the hassle of exposing your bees to the elements or opening your hive for maintenance.
Top feeders come in a variety of designs. They can range from a simple, shallow box to a telescoping outer cover. These feeders are great for keeping bees in check and reducing spilled syrup. The simplest top feeder is a box made of wood, plastic, or some other material.
Some top feeders come with hardware cloth to allow the bees to access the syrup. Alternatively, you can use a slatted rack to keep the bees from building ladder comb at the bottom.
You can make your own top feeder with some scrap lumber and some time on your hands. Just remember that it takes time for the materials to dry and you will need to apply a sealant to protect them from the elements.
You can also buy readymade hive top feeders. Preassembled top feeders can cost as little as $10 a pop. However, you may find it a challenge to find a top feeder that fits your hive. So, it pays to shop around.
Can hold a lot of syrup
If you are looking to feed your bees syrup, there are several different methods to choose from. Each method is useful in its own way.
Regardless of which method you choose, you will need to make sure that you are providing bees with enough syrup. This can help your colony survive during the dearth period, which happens when there is a lack of resources such as honey and nectar.
One of the easiest ways to get syrup to your bees is to use a top feeder. These can come in a variety of sizes to fit eight frame Langstroth equipment. They are easy to fill and do not leak.
The size of the container you choose will determine the amount of time it will take for your colony to empty it. Having a large capacity can save you a lot of time when you are away from your apiary.
Having a good inner cover is important to prevent bees from drowning when the box is full. You can also use screen material to keep bees from flying out of the box. A piece of galvanized wire mesh can be used as a barrier.
Another option is to use an inverted container. An inverted container is a jar, pail, or paint can with a hole in it. It holds the liquid inside by a vacuum. However, it requires a hole that is bee size and a way to hold it over the bees.
Cost of building a hive-top feeder
For less than $50, you can build a hive top feeder to feed your bees. You’ll need a simple wooden box and some scrap wood. It’s also a great way to offer sugar syrup to your bees when the nectar flow is low. Using a top feeder allows you to refill without disturbing your bees.
Hive top feeders can hold up to two gallons of sugar syrup. They are ideal for Langstroth hives, but can also be used on Warre or British National hives.
The best feeders are made with extra outer covers. These can be purchased preassembled or built yourself. A 2’x4′ sheet of 3/4″ exterior grade non-treated plywood is a perfect size for a top feeder.
Whether you choose to build a top feeder or buy one, you’ll need to seal it well against the elements. Sealing with weatherproof sealant is essential. You should also give the finished product a couple coats of exterior latex paint.
Depending on the size of your Langstroth hive, you may need to make a few adjustments to the design. Unlike an internal feeder, a top feeder is not susceptible to leaks.
Having an extra deep box to surround your feeders will be helpful when feeding bees. Also, you’ll want to provide an escape route for your bees.
