Installing Feeder Plugs in Hive Tops

Having multiple ways to feed your hive is important in different weather conditions. I'm installing feeder plugs in migratory covers for hives that already have a frame feeder installed.
In the late fall, bees won't break cluster to take syrup, but they will if it is right above them.

[@massachusettsprepper]

I am seriously thinking about going to pale feeders this coming spring as well. Thanks for sharing.

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

for late and early season feeding, I see this as a win/win...and with the frame feeders can be used right after honey pull when a dearth starts...the hive can more easily protect it from robbing or being blown off. in late spring when we have rains which results is a bit of a dearth, you can fill frame feeders with 1:2 just to keep the queen laying to simulate a flow.

[@russellkoopman3004]

My thought is I would use a 2" plug to increase the feeding area. That is what Ian Steppler is using with his 2 gal pail feeders. Just a thought.

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

bee maid (Steppler supplier) sells the 2"...Mann lake does not...I used what I could get. Canada shipping is cost prohibitive.
..

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

P.S....I know ian said 2", but the link HE provided on his video to bee maid was for 1 1/2"....

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

and the size of the hive top hole really doesn't matter...the bees have room under the bucket lid to congregate...as many as can feed off the screen.

[@russellkoopman3004]

@@KevinsNorthernExposure That's true. I didn't think of that. Thanks for the come-back. Have a great New Years.

[@TerryWheelyabarrabackApiary]

Finding center? Use straight edge diagonal 1 diagonal 2 draw a pencil line where they meet. Thats your center. Then use square to measure offset.

[@dennissitter2242]

I use the same plugs. To help with the problem of plugs getting lost. I have a jar that I pot the plugs in when they are out. Just leave on the ground by the hive stand. Can't blow away or get eaten by anything.

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

good tip. Thanks.

[@geanitsucuneli4791]

If it is exatly on brood ,don't forget the plug from the bucket many times ,is liking and the brood get wet and ......

[@matthewsweeney2577]

In the winter are the frame feeders empty, stay liquid or become a sugar pop?

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

Feeders are empty. There are times when it gets too cold and the bees will no longer leave cluster to take down the syrup...in those cases the syurp will stay in the feeder until spring...surpisingly enough, it doesn't freeze ...colony keeps it warm enough inside the box to keep it liquid.

[@jefftrebler3720]

What size hole saw did you use???

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

cap sizes vary, but I think for mine I used 1 3/4". I cut a test hole first in cardboard to ensure a proper fit.

[@michaelmurdock7869]

What kind of feeder do you use with the plugs?

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

Pail feeder : th-cam.com/video/5B0TGHuRbF8/w-d-xo.html

[@gregwaskom552]

Or use covers without metal. Just painted

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

Touche'

[@danschneider9219]

vikings still can't put it all together

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

That was brutal

[@danschneider9219]

@@KevinsNorthernExposure someday try a real football team

[@Jus.stop1234]

Stick to subject

[@KevinsNorthernExposure]

Yes sir.