Entrance Reducers on Oklahoma

[stanisr]

Hello, just a quick question. I have asked local beekeepers that are more experienced than myself, and I have kept hive for over 5 years, and keep getting mixed answers. How much should I reduce the entrance on a mature hive? Our weather is unpredictable here, we may have 80 degree days and freezing temps a night. We may have two feet of snow or none at all. So should I close the hives to a small opening as some suggest or leave the reducers out all together as others suggest?

[cao]

I have been keeping bees about as long as you.  For the last two years I have left the reducers on all year.  The bees do just fine with it(3/8" x 3" opening).  I may be in the minority but it works for me.

[BeeMaster2]

All of my hives have reducers on them all year long.
I have a lot less problems with robbing with them on.
Jim

[stanisr]

Thanks Guys, I think I will do the same and leave mine on all year. I have opened up the hive in the summer and had more problems than with the ones I had the reducers on. But what I am trying to decide is if I reduce them to the smallest opening and when?

[Beeboy01]

If you get enough snow to cover the bottom entrance you should think about having an upper entrance to let the bees fly during the warmer days. A upper entrance will also improve the ventilation and reduce moisture in the hive.