Honey-combs in supers are better when made thicker than those for breeding, consequently the bars are placed a little further apart than in the lower or stock hive; they are either the Woodbury Ribbed, contrived to induce the straight building of combs, or flat bars with guide-combs affixed.
COVERS.
A loose outer case, forming a complete cover for the hive, is found very useful. The case is made in two parts, for convenience the roof is also separate, having an acorn at top, which forms a neat finish. These outside cases are made of wood, and drop lightly over all; when thus protected, and fixed on a pedestal, the hive may be placed in the open air in such position as fancy may dictate. The aspect should be south or south-east, and, if against a wall, sufficient space must be allowed for a free passage behind, as it is from thence all operations must be conducted by the apiarian. The case and roof, with the stand, being the only parts exposed to the weather, will be the only portions that require painting; they are sometimes stained and varnished, and we are inclined to prefer the latter for appearance. Should the apiarian have a complete bee-hive house, the cover, and stands will not be needed.
When removing or replacing the covers, care should be taken to do so very gently, or the bees will be enraged, and rush out, and may inflict stings upon those within their reach. We have obviated the necessity for lifting off the cover for the purpose of looking in, either at the window of the stock-hive or of the super, by making a door, both in the upper and lower parts of the outside case. These doors, or unglazed windows, are hinged at the bottom, so as to open downwards, rendering inspection easy, without disturbance to the bees.
A wooden range for supporting a number of hives makes a safe and economical stand; it may be formed by driving firmly into the ground two rows of posts, each row about twelve inches apart; to these two rails, about two inches square, are nailed, and upon these the hives firmly rest. Care should be taken not to have the hives nearer together than eighteen inches; the intermediate space will be found very convenient on which to rest the cover, or for supporting an empty hive during the proper performance of any operation.
Mr. Woodbury has his hives arranged on rails, somewhat after the plan before described.
In describing, as above, the various hives and frames, some hints have been given as to the methods of handling them. This, however, will not suffice for an induction to the mysteries of practical bee-keeping, and we must refer the reader to a subsequent section, wherein the details as to manipulation will be fully explained, and the results of the experience of several distinguished apiarians will be embodied.
TAYLOR'S IMPROVED COTTAGE HIVE.
