Migratory Lid Plans

[Patrick Scannell]

I'd like to build some migratory lids.

Are plans available online, or can someone just describe the critical dimensions?

Is there some accomodation made for bee-space above the frame tops, so the bee there are not cruched when the cover is put on?

Thanks, Patrick

[Michael Bush]

Depending on the frames and the frame rests and the boxes, some boxes end up with 1/4" beespace at the top. This is adequate. Some end up with less and then bees get squished. I end up with some migratory covers with a spacer glued and nailed around the edge and some without for that reason.

My favorite are to take some 3/4" Exterior plywood and cut it 16 1/4" by 21 5/8" and cut two one by twos 16 1/4" and nail then on edge for cleats. The plywood warps less than anything else. Otherwise you need to make them out of tongue and groove pine.

I also make some lighter ones (that blow off eaiser) out of 1/4" laun. They are nice for hiving swarms and such because they are lighter in weight and easy to carry around. The laun plywood is exterior glue also and stands up well to the weather.

[Patrick Scannell]

Thanks for explaining that. It seems like it is most desirable to have 1/4 inch free above the frames.

I'm asking because this winter I'd like to put my hives up against each other in groups of 3 or 4 to preserve warmth for over-wintering. The telescoping lids get in the way.