176 A Modem Bee-Farm 



are all toiigued and well put together that no leakage may 

 occur, though it is advisable to paint the whole inside to 

 prevent saturation. There is a slot along the top on one side 

 nearest the bees, by which they are allowed to enter a f-inch 

 passage between the outer and inner wall, where a good footing 

 is obtained while taking up the syrup. The sugar is held 

 clear of the bottom by a piece of perforated tin in an arched 

 form, thus admitting of a free circulation of liquids under the 

 dissolving sugar. No cooking therefore is necessary, as the 

 usual quantity of sugar and water (a pound of sugar to half 

 a pint of water) soon amalgamate in the form of syrup. The 

 proportions named happen to be correct for this system, as it 

 will be found that a residue of sugar will be given where 

 more than the pound is placed in the half pint of water. 

 Another feeder for the top of the hive is the 



Circular " Amateur," 



which I have arranged upon the same principle, as will be. 

 readily understood by the illustration (Fig. 50). This holds 

 about 7 or 8 lbs. at a time, and the inner funnel leading up to 

 the syrup passage around the same is lined with wood, or a 

 lamp-wick can be used leading down into the cluster in cool 

 weather ; though if feeding is necessary at such times it is 

 always more satisfactory if the syrup is warmed. Among 



Bottle-feeders, 



we have the " Raynor" (Fig. 51) arranged to give a graduated 

 supply, with a projecting point attached to the perforated 

 metal cap of the bottle, indicating by the figures to which it 

 points on the stand the number of holes to which the bees 

 have access. The underside of the excavated block is lined, 

 with warm material, though generally of the kind that is 

 annoying to the bees, and which they soon tear away. If 

 painted with wax it would be equally as warm, and more 

 appreciated by the bees. 



