These are a combination follower (aka division) board and syrup feeder. I don’t anticipate having to feed my bees as I’m going to leave them lots of stores, but I though it would be a good thing to have just in case. They are constructed from 1x3 lumber and 1/4” plywood into a hollow box. By my calculations they will hold 1.5 gallons if filled completely.



Here are the components. One top, one bottom, two sides, and a front and back made from plywood.


Shown is one side put together. The top bar is not glued on so it can be removed. This will make waterproofing and later cleaning easier. I used silicone caulk and wood glue to help seal the joints.



And the other side and top attached.



You can make 5 out of 3 1x3x8 boards and a half sheet of 1/4” plywood. The entrance holes are drilled on one side and a filling hole drilled on top. If you use a 7/8” top hole you can use a wine cork as a plug.



The inside is sealed with melted beeswax. I’ve yet to do this so I’m not sure if it works. A scrap piece of hardware cloth is placed at an angle top to bottom so the bees won’t drown. The top bar is reattached with screws.
 

Follower (division) Board Feeders

Saturday, March 22, 2008

 
 

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