Observation hives - does the light scare off the bees?

[montauk170]

Just wondering, in an observation hive, do the bees mind the light or window as most "standard" hives are dark?

Thinking of cutting a window on the side of a medium and installing a plexi-glass. This hive will be sitting outside but under roofing near a bedroom window.

[buzzbee]

If the bee space between the glass and combs is too great,they will probably build comb on it.The Ob hive in my house is uncovered most of the time and the glass is still clean. They touched a couple small spots,but that is it. make sure the sun does not shine directly in the glass.

[D Coates]

I just installed a nuc in my 5 deep OB hive.  I've got covers on both sides so it stays dark in there.  It's in my office out of direct sunlight but obviously there are lights on in my office.  The office is pretty dark when I turn out the lights to leave though.  I was under the impression that they don't like too much light and will abscond if overly exposed to light.  

I'd love to know about Montauk170s question, as if I am mistaken I'd love to take off the covers and enjoy then at all times during business hours.

[greezykid]

I have put opaque covers on 4 hives and the light does not seem to bother them one bit.I can look right in to the top of the frames and see bees doing there thing.It might be a plus in being able to tell when frames are getting full.The light in the hives has also done wonders in getting rid of beetles.I do have protection from direct sunlight so they don't get burnt.The sun gets very hot in Fla.

[AllenF]

That hot Florida sun might make extracting honey easier.   Just but the hive in the sun and a bucket under you screened bottom board and at the end of the day you get a bucket of honey and wax.   Wait, that might not be so good of an idea,  hehe.

[Grandpa Jim]

My OH is just 2 deep frames.  I have not covered it except when it goes out for show.  No direct sun, but it is in a bright room.  They go about their business as usual and are raising their 3 queen this year.  I have been removing a frame with the queen and placing her in a nuc, than placing a frame to be drawn in to replace it.  Has worked well, so far, and is always interesting to watch the process.
Jim

[montauk170]

Thanks everyone. I'll have to give it a go with a window to observe them.