To answer the question - NO don't put it below the feeder. You don't even need it if you are using a hive top feeder as you suggest. I run hive top feeders as my inner cover year around. Gives good ventilation and easy access to feed.I have a quick question I bought a Mann lake top hive feeder and need to know if I leave the inner cover on below it?
Old School is nothing to be looked at as bad. Old school is what we need more of ..'Had to look up the Mann Lake feeder - up to four gallons...wow.
It appears drlonzo is correct, and I'm just old school.