I run a KTBH so the hive is horizontal. When I first Hives my package I used a follower board with a hole in it to have an internal feeder but separate from the hive area. I was wondering if you think bees would think of that as a separate area too or just part of the hive that is through a small hole?
If a hive was trapped in that kind of set up would they go through the hole to relieve themselves or do they have to fly outside for a cleansing flight?
I have read if they are trapped inside and not able to do cleansing flights it will end up all over but what if they had a separate area?
I have three TBH and never fed them the first bit of food. Now mind ya it was swarms I caught and not packages. They are the fastest building hives I have and I have to tend to them regular to make sure they don't swarm on me. If it would be easier to harvest honey from them I would have more but is not the case so most hives are langs. I from time to time put an empty in between the brood to settle them down. THer is a thread here that addresses TBH and you should check it out. Lots of good info.
Blanc