No. 4.] ESSENTIALS OF BEEKEEPING. 157 



Selecting the Type of Hive. 

 The majority of beekeepers, especially large commercial producers, 

 use the Langstroth hive, invented in 1851. This may contain eight 

 or more frames, the present preference being for the ten-frame 

 capacity. Furthermore, it is desirable to secure the new, 16i/4-inch 

 dimension hive body, permitting the use of ten frames and a division 

 board, which follows after and confines the frames. 



The Use of Foundation. 



Experience shows that too few beekeepers, in this State at least, 

 appreciate the advantage of using foundation, which is merely a 

 basis for the construction of true and perfect combs. Foundation 

 is composed of joure beeswax; it is not artificial comb. It is merely 

 a sheet of wax in which the shape and dimensions of worker cells 

 are imj^ressed. Foundation, when given to the bees, is drawn out by 

 them and elaborated into combs uniformly of worker cells. In nat- 

 urally built comb there is a well-defined tendency in bees to construct 

 a high percentage of drone cells. An excess of drones in the hives 

 is to be guarded against. A further and important advantage is, 

 that each comb constructed on full foundation in frames, may be 

 removed without damage to itself or the adjoining ones. Remem- 

 ber, too, that according to various estimates, from 10 to 20 pounds 

 of honey are consumed by bees in producing 1 pound of comb. 



Of course, it is essential to use but a half-inch strip of foundation 

 in the tops of the frames when treating for disease, but the combs 

 constnicted may be removed later and full sheets of foundation sub- 

 stituted. 



Beekeepers are urged to use full foundation whenever possible; 

 it will prove economy in the long i*un. 



Other Equipment. 



In so old a State as Massachusetts it hardly seems possible that 

 any one should attempt to maintain bees without a smoker. It is an 

 indispensable instrument, without which, at times, most bees cannot 

 be handled. Buy a strong, modern smoker, of good capacity and 

 standard pattern. They cost less than a dollar and will serve for 

 years. 



The beginner in beekeeping should not brave the attacks of his 

 bees by failing to use a veil. Cloth veils, made of cotton tulle, or 

 the wire-constructed Muth pattern, if properly worn, are bee proof 

 and comfortable. The supply merchants also furnish inexpensive 

 gloves, which not only protect the hands but give a beginner added 

 confidence. 



In order to pry apart fixtures and scrape away refuse propolis. 



