Shade for bees (BfD Journal #31)

PROVIDING SHADE
In hot climates wild-nesting colonies always choose a shady spot for their nest near to a water supply. The easiest way to protect colonies in hives from the sun is if possible, to place them under shade trees in a green grassy area. If no shade trees are available then artificial shades must be constructed.

The roof of the shade should be high enough to allow the beekeeper to work amongst the hives. If a large number of hives are to be shaded and a long shade is to be constructed, then it should run east-west to give maximum benefit.

KEEPING HIVES COOL
Colonies also receive heat radiating from the ground. Reduce this effect by siting the hives on grass or other green vegetation, or placing mats under the hives. Hives can also be painted white or a light colour to reflect heat. rather than absorb it.

WATER
And always make sure that your bees have a plentiful water supply, as near as possible.

More BfD Bytes

Bees for Development Journal
No 87 June 2008
In this issue
The Darwin Initiative
Apitrade Africa in Nairobi
Honey legislation update
Letters
The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
Honey hunting in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
Work opens up a different world
Nature conservation is a thread woven well through forest beekeeping
Trees Bees Use
Honey tree of the Cholanaickens
Marikodu – a typical village
Reducing the water content of tropical honey
News Around the World
Bookshelf
Look & Learn Ahead
Notice Board
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