Could this be a location specific decision? i.e., would hot climates (like east TX) need a larger opening for ventilation? I understand bees are good at temperature regulation, but it would make sense to me that there might be differences in air circulation requirements between a hive in TX vs a hive in AK. I also have a riser on the top hive screen for summer to allow air flow.>What are some guidelines about when to use entrance reducers?
After years of experimentation, I leave them reduced to about 2" wide all year around. I only reduce them more if they are weak and robbing is a problem and I never open them completely anymore.
This is how I reduce entrances. If I want the opening in the center, the board is still cut so that it sits on the outside of the opening instead of between the bottom and box.Mine are a pain to remove so I can get the OAV inside, I am thinking just a piece of wood setting outside, is better than one between the boxes, where it's hard to get out.
They evaporate the water by moving air over it.>Could this be a location specific decision? i.e., would hot climates (like east TX) need a larger opening for ventilation?
Everything in beekeeping seems to be location specific. But I think it's a mistake to think that because it is hot that you are helping when you create a bigger opening or more ventilation. The bees don't cool the hive merely with ventilation. They cool the hive with water and controlled ventilation. Too much ventilation and they can't control it.