Hives are artificial homes for bees. You can provide the necessary conditions for the life of these wonderful insects by choosing high-quality houses. Their acquisition is a very responsible business. And knowledge of the basic requirements will help identify manufacturing flaws and make the right choice when buying.
Instructions
Step 1
Modern hives are made of various materials: fiberboard (fiberboard), foam, wood. The most environmentally friendly material for the manufacture of bee houses is wood. Find out the type of wood from which they are made. Quality material is considered: cedar, pine, fir and spruce. Soft deciduous wood is often used: linden, willow, poplar. Attention should be paid to the quality of the wood. Blueness of the material, wormholes and rot are a sign of poor-quality, diseased wood. Hives made of such a tree will not last long, although they are cheaper.
Step 2
Check the standard of the hives - all parts should be interchangeable and fit all hives. This will make it easier to care for the bees and make your work easier. It is worth making a purchase from a major manufacturer. He produces beehives in large batches on modern equipment with high-quality wood processing and precision of details. Beekeepers often transport apiaries to honey sites during the season. Try the grip comfort and strength. Check for a system of fasteners for the body, bottom and cover. Pay special attention to the roof covering - there should be thin sheet metal.
Step 3
All walls of the hive, except for the front one, should be painted yellow or green. The coloring of the front wall is allowed in colors that are well distinguished by bees: light blue, light yellow, white. Choose the types of hives depending on the size of the frames that fit in them. In areas with rich honey harvests, large hives are needed, allowing for the growth of families. The climatic conditions of honey collection also influence the choice. In cold climates, the houses will be insulated, and therefore should be more spacious. If you buy hives for a nomadic apiary, look for lightweight houses.
