ROUND BEE-FEEDER. i tj 



ROUND BEE-FEEDER. 



Round bee-feeders are made of zinc and earthen- 

 ware, eight inches across, three inches deep. The pro- 

 jection outside is a receptacle for 

 pouring in the food ; the bees gain 

 access to the feeder through a 

 round hole, which is placed either 

 at the centre or nearer one side, 

 whichever may best suit the openings on the top of the 

 stock-hive. The feeder occupies a similar position to 

 that of the glasses or cap hives in the gathering season. 

 A circular piece of glass, cut so as to fit into a groove, 

 prevents the bees escaping, and retains the warmth 

 within the hive, whilst it affords opportunity for inspect- 

 ing the bees when feeding. 



The feeders were originally only made of zinc ; but 

 some bee-keepers advised the use of earthenware, and a 

 few have been made to meet the wishes of those who 

 give the preference to that material. 



When the bees are fed from above in this manner, 

 the feeder is kept at a warm temperature by the heat of 

 the hive. In common hives, cottagers feed the bees by 

 pushing under the hive thin slips of wood scooped out, 

 into which the food is poured. This plan of feeding 

 can only be had recourse to at night, 'and the pieces of 

 wood must be removed in the morning. By feeding at 

 the top of the stock-hive any interruption of the bees is 



