NEIGHBOUR'S IMPROVED COTTAGE HIVE.
Fig. 7.
I would say that it consists of a straw, circular, lower compartment, having three windows and outside shutters; a thermometer is fixed across the centre window, so that the Bees cannot work between it and the glass, and thus intercept the view of the graduated scale. This little thermometer is found to be a useful appendage, as it affords to the apiarian a correct indication of the state of the hive at all seasons of the year. This lower or stock hive rests on a stout wooden floor, at least 2 inches in thickness, projecting in front as a landing-place for the Bees, which enter under the hoop attached to the straw, by means of a sunken way; the hoop is used to overcome the uneven surface of the straw, as well as to give durability to the hive. The top is also of wood, having three or more circular openings, of about 3 inches diameter, to receive as many glasses.
In the top of each glass is a small hole, through which a tube of perforated zinc is suspended, upon which guide-combs may be fixed; it also forms a convenient support, to which the Bees attach their combs. Over the glasses is placed a cover of straw (also hoop-bound), closely fitting the top of the stock hive, and secured by means of thumb-screws, so that it can be removed with great facility, to allow of inspection or operations. This straw cover is surmounted by a ventilator, forming a neat finish, and by which the temperature of the glasses may be regulated.