Should the entrance reducer be used during winter? If so, should it be used with the (1) 4 inch opening or (2) 1 inch opening?
Mine are all mostly 1 1/2" to 2 1/2" openings...
I have always used mouse guards. I have a few varieties.
I have used this model since I started.
http://www.gabees.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=33&products_id=158&osCsid=7ce707b807063032b7f7a22c426b92dd
I started with this model this year and so far no issues. I prefer the former since it is easier to install.
https://www.dadant.com/catalog/popup_image.php?pID=213
If I were going to use the wooden reducer that comes with the bottom board, I would use the larger opening unless the hive is real weak. I typically cut these down and use them for reducers on home made nuc boxes though.
Thanks, MB and Bassman!
At the present, I am using the wooden reducer on the 4" or so opening (which appears to be the same as Bassman recommends). I can understand a smaller opening would be used in a colder areas such as Nebraska!
It has been pretty warm in NC up to this point but low temps are forecasted to be in the mid-20s in a few days. I am letting the girls finish up some 2:1 syrup and will button up the hive until February or so.
I want to be sure that they have good ventilation. I flipped the inner cover putting the flat side up and the "half moon vent" in the frowning position. Seems to vent great!
Thanks again!
QuoteI want to be sure that they have good ventilation. I flipped the inner cover putting the flat side up and the "half moon vent" in the frowning position. Seems to vent great!
None of my inner covers have this half moon vent that a lot of people seem to have. I have been using wood door shims. It works great. I think Mr. Bush recommends it often.
How big is the half-moon vent?
Bassman,
The half moon opening is about 3/8 of an inch at its highest point and about 1 inch long.
By flipping the inner cover, the bees have direct access to this opening directly from the top of frames in the top hive body. One of my hives likes to use it as an upper entrance/exit; my second hive seems to ignore it.
Since I am feeding 2:1 syrup with a gallon glass jar through the oval hole in the inner cover, moisture evaporates and moves directly from the upper hive body to the outside through the half moon opening.
Seems like it would be handy for the feeding. Surprised they don't propolize it shut.