"The Ventilator I use, says Mr. Taylor, (and I have made them of various forms) consists of double tubes, both resting on a flauch in the holes prepared for them, the outer tube is of one inch diameter and six inches long, with six half inch holes dispersed over it.
It is soon fixed down in its place by the Bees, and so must remain, the inner tube is of perforated zinc, with a[6] tin projecting top as a handle, and a cap to put on or off this as required. The Bees will stop up the inner tube where they can get at it, when it may be turned round a little to present a new surface. When wholly stopped, it may be withdrawn from its place, and a clean tube substituted. This may be done without the least danger to the operator, but it should be inserted carefully, to avoid crushing any Bees that may have crept within the outer tube, an exit to these is afforded by the hole at the bottom. The substance with which Bees glue up all crevices and attach their combs is called Propolis—a resinous exudation from certain trees, of a fragrant smell, and removable by the aid of hot water.
[6] In adopting Mr. Taylor's Ventilator to the small hive, the inner tube must be made without "the projecting top as a handle," and the cap made even with the flauch.
In order occasionally to know the temperature of any of the boxes, a thermometer made to fit the ventilator may be inserted in it. This is chiefly useful as a matter of precaution towards the swarming season.
Some have thought it necessary to cut holes in the floor-board, or have placed drawers underneath, to aid the ventilation, but I have always found the mouth of the hive sufficient for all purposes."
All operations except joining swarms or stocks, should be performed upon a fine day, about noon, they may then be done with much less annoyance to the Bees, as well as with less chance of danger to the operator.
I have for some years past performed almost all the operations required in this system without the defence, even of gloves, but I would not recommend any person to attempt it, until he has had several years experience in the management of Bees.
The being perfectly defended in every part against their stings, gives that coolness and confidence to the operator, upon which the happy accomplishment of his intentions so much depends. I cannot too strongly urge, that coolness and confidence on the part of the operator are essential qualifications, for anything approaching to hurry irritates them beyond measure; indeed whilst engaged with them the hand ought never to be hastily removed from one position to another. Dr. Bevan says, "quietness is the surest protection against being stung."
The best defence is a mask of wire, very similar to, but much finer than a fencing mask, with a rim of tin made to fit the head, to which a silk handkerchief is attached, a pair of thick worsted gloves, and stockings or gaiters of the same material; stout leather gloves are as good protection as those of worsted, but leather, from the closeness of its texture, will not allow the Bees to withdraw their stings from it and the consequence is, that many perish.