76 BEE PASTtTEAGE. 



above, and others at the ends. A mechanic will construct 

 a special frame to hold them, and a glazed sash to cover 

 each side, giving two inches space between, for the comb. 

 The sash on one side should be movable, that the comb 

 can be changed occasionally, and if more than one is used, 

 that they may all be removed to a regular hive for winter, 

 as such observatory hives are not suitable for cold weather. 



CHAPTER IV 



BEE PASTURAGE. 



During the warm days of spring, while the winter's 

 snow is melting away, and before the flowers have appear- 

 ed, the bees seem anxious to be at work. It is then inter- 

 esting to watch them, and ascertain what they will use as 

 substitutes for pollen and honey. 



SUBSTITUTE FOR POLLEN. 



At such periods I have seen hundreds engaged upon a 

 heap of saw-dust, gathering the minute particles into pel- 

 lets on their legs, and seeming quite pleased with the 

 acquisition. Rotten wood, when crumbled into dry pow- 

 der, is also collected. Flour scattered near the hive is 

 taken up in large quantities. Concerning the utility of 

 flour as a substitute for pollen, I have now had considera- 

 ble experience. Yet much depends on the locality, num- 

 ber of the bees, and quantity of snow. Where there ar( 

 but few bees, and little snow, the early flowers appear so 

 soon after the bees begin to fly, that flour is of but little 

 advantage. But wlien the number of bees greatly exceeds 

 the supply, the flour should be given during jjleas-int 

 days, to promote early breeding, and establish liabit-; of 



