Hives to hot?

[RangerBrad]

When keeping hives in full sun is it possible to overheat them? I ask because I always keep mine in full sun and are average temp for the month has been 105 and calling for slightly higher temps next week. All hives have acess to water to assist in their cooling and 1 hive has a upper entrance as well as a regular entrance and all are hived with screened bottom boards. What are yal's thoughts on hives in full sun during extremely hot temps? Thank's, Brad

[D Coates]

I've kept mine in the same set up you describe for 3 years now.  I may get a little bearding from the more heavily populated hives but otherwise they'll do fine. 

If you've got nucs without SBB's crack the lid and give them some shade if you can.  They are not as good at regulating their own temperatures.

[Bee-Bop]

In Arizona they keep bees, 114 + degrees isn't unheard of many times a year, over a hundred degrees for weeks at a time !

Some keepers do nothing, some put slatted shade over the hives, ( snow fencing to Northerners ).

Been there and done that !

Bee-Bop

[mikecva]

I have my outer cover lifted ~ 1/2 inch (by two screws on the front of the inner cover), this helps with the upper movement of air through the hive.  -Mike

[RangerBrad]

Thank's folk's this makes me feel alot better. Sounds like they'll do fine. Brad