Beemaster's International Beekeeping Forum

BEEKEEPING LEARNING CENTER => GENERAL BEEKEEPING - MAIN POSTING FORUM. => Topic started by: patook on May 22, 2009, 08:42:49 PM

Title: Top entrance and SBB
Post by: patook on May 22, 2009, 08:42:49 PM
I installed a sundance top trap in my hive today. Because it requires closing the bottom entrance, I changed to a SBB to allow ventilation.  I then closed the entrance completely. As expected, the bees started to collect at the now closed off entrance. However, instead of going up to the new entrance, they are collecting under the hive on the SBB.

Should I do anything or will they straighten it out in a few days?  I did flip the sundance so they will have easy access until they get used to the new entrance.
Title: Re: Top entrance and SBB
Post by: Robo on May 22, 2009, 10:15:04 PM
I'd slide the inset into the SBB to close it off for a couple of days until the bees get use to the new entrance.   As long as they can communicate through the screen,  they will be more hesitant to find the new entrance.
Title: Re: Top entrance and SBB
Post by: patook on May 22, 2009, 10:44:33 PM
SBB does not have an inset. I could put a board under it but there is about 2 lbs of bees under there that I would have to get out first.

Title: Re: Top entrance and SBB
Post by: Michael Bush on May 24, 2009, 11:38:19 PM
I would remove the pollen trap and open the top entrance until they get used to it.  A board on the bottom is probably wise as well.  Once the get used to the top entrance then put the pollen trap back on.