Observation Hives

[devdog108]

I have been ready a lot about the different style hives, TB, and so forth and have seen some very good detailed plans on having an observation hive, and even saw one in a guys house after much convincing to his better half. Do these bees get returned to their L hives for Winter or are they overwintered in the Obs hive? The ones I saw looked like they were set up to stay, even though I know some are made for taking for a day-sometimes a week.....etc...etc...

[sqkcrk]

The observation hive that I am responsible for, at a Nature Center, stays occupied all year round unless it dies. Theses last three summers and two winters this hive has survived on its own. Well, almost. It did need feeding this last spring. But no treatments have been used.

[devdog108]

Are they wintering here? i would think the warmer weather inside basedn it being an observation hive woul dmake them still want to work? Is this not the case?

[sqkcrk]

Well, devdog, the observation hive that I tend is right along the St. Lawrence Seaway in northern NY. It is warmer inside the building than if the hive were outside, but they don't try to fly during the cold months. I encourage the center workers to keep a cover on the hive unless someone wants to observe the bees. Which, I think, keeps the bees calmer than they otherwise would be. Therefore less honey consumption. I don't know if that addresses your questions.

I'm sure that things could be different in GA.

[devdog108]

yeah, it does. I have considered it so my kids could see, but i guess i was trying to figure out hwo they kept themselves warm and such. Obviously it can be done! My wife is frm Buffalo!