[mommystayshome]

My bees are now at the 22 day mark and I have been using a boardman feeder. I noticed today for the first time that there are a lot of bees hanging on the corners of the feeder(I assume getting sugar water.) Are they robbers or just part of my colony and how can I tell the difference? And when should I take away the feeder?
Amanda
New Beek

 

[mommystayshome]

Oh and I only have 1 hive

 

[Bees&Trees]

First off, I've heard nothing good about using boardman feeders. They encourage robbing and are exposed to sunlight, ie no good for medication. If the bees aren't visibly fighting, just hanging out they are probably yours. If they are being robbed, you should be able to tell. If it's really hot, not in Vegas right now huh?, they could just be cooling off. When to take off. Are you medicating? If not the bees will go for nectar first if available and won't take the sugar syrup, if you think there is a dearth leave it on. Otherwise you can take off and wait until fall to start feeding again. These are the feeders I would suggest FD109 or variant.

http://www.mannlakeltd.com/ListProduct.asp?idCategory=10

 

[mike haney]

"...should I take away the feeder..."
most feed until the brood box(s) are drawn out.
good luck,mike