Observation hive...

[Bens-Bees]

Ok, last year's observation hive was a complete and utter failure... I want to try it again, are there any recommendations on styles of observation hives?

[ShaneVBS]

I bought the bonterra plans, nice hives. I went and picked up my rough cut today. 70bucks worth of maple. Ready to plane if I only had a planer lol

[PerryBee]

What set-up did you use Ben? I am curious as to what works as well. I built one 3 years ago and have yet to put bees in it. I keep saying "this is the year" and then stuff gets in the way.
I like the look of the "Ulster" with the 5 frames below and the one frame above for observation. It looks like it might be easier on the bees.
This is mine. (maybe this year) :lol:

http://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv1/PerryBee/2008055.jpghttp://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv1/PerryBee/2008058.jpg

[ShaneVBS]

nice perry

[Bens-Bees]

That's very nice Perry, but I don't understand how it works... how do you swap out the bottom frames? Do you have to remove the glass?

[PerryBee]

Thanks Ben:

Yeah, both sides have lexan that slides up (the wood cover that does the same over the glass was removed for these pics,). Then each frame just pops out the front or back, whichever you choose. The top bars just slide into those grooves.
There are cork plugs over screened holes on the sides and the top has 3 screened holes as well. The entrance is in the block on the right side of the hive, opposite the feeder. There are little lexan slides that open the entrance and also access to the feeder.

[Bens-Bees]

Perry, I like that design and I think I'm going to try to make something similar, but I am wondering how the top fastens down to hold in the lexan and allow it to be carried using the handle. Also, could you take some pictures of the little lexan slides that open the entrance and access to the feeder?

Finally, what did you use as a finish for the wood to make it look so nice?

[PerryBee]

Hey Ben:

I can't remember exactly the finish, I think maybe golden oak?
When the lid is down, it holds the lexan sides and the coroplast covers in place. The lid has to be totally open for those to slide up and out.

http://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv1/PerryBee/ObsHiveandVac001.jpg

http://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv1/PerryBee/ObsHiveandVac002.jpg

http://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv1/PerryBee/ObsHiveandVac003.jpg

http://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv1/PerryBee/ObsHiveandVac004.jpg

http://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv1/PerryBee/ObsHiveandVac014.jpg

The last one just shows the entrance at the other end, pretty basic.

[Indiana Dave]

Wow, that looks great, Perry!! You did a wonderful job. Please let us know if you decide to put bees in it this year and keep us updated when you do.

[efmesch]

If you can get a copy of Manual 42, of the California Agricultural Experiment Station Extension Service "FUNDAMENTALS OF CALIFORNIA BEEKEEPING", aside from all the excellent general information, it includes a simple building plan for a 4 frame observation hive. It's very easy to make and includes basic instructions on setting up and managing the observation hive.
The one big problem with observation hives is that bees have a hard time regulating the temperature because of the large surface area that is exposed. As fascinating as it is, you can't expect to kep it populated all year unless you live in the tropics.

[Zulu]

Perry I loaded up a loaner obs hive to bring into the house to show the kids. Just did overnight. It was loads of fun and they could see how the bees work. With a young Perry in your home give it a try.

I am building my own this year from Brazilian Cherry , plans done...

[PerryBee]

Zulu, bee sure to post some pics! :thumbsup: Also, if I had to do it again, I would put hinge doors on instead of the lexan that slides up and down. I think it would be easier to access the frames that way. A person could always use a hive tool to pry open the doors, I have a feeling once propolized, the lexan will not slide so easily. I understand that using vaseline on the edges of the lexan keeps them slideing longer.

[Zulu]

Yep, sorry for the big lags but I'm between flights, sitting in Charlotte airport now, was in Nashville before.

My plan has hinges on front, frames slide in, and I was thinking of doing 4 frames total, and thus having two doors, so only two frames at a time are open.

I will take pics as I go.

[Bens-Bees]

I understand that using vaseline on the edges of the lexan keeps them slideing longer.

Wouldn't that also kill the bees?

[dr.buzz]

Wouldn't that also kill the bees?No. You just use enough to keep them from propolizing the clear sheets into the groove they slide in......

[cherylsbees]

Perry your observation hive is beautiful. I have been trying to get my husband to build me one. He just hasn't had the time. Hopefully this summer. We borrow one from a friend to take to the local farmers market to give talks and to schools for talks. It is such a great teaching tool.