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I've noticed there is a large gathering of bees on the outside entrance of a hive during the night hours. Is this an indication the temp is too much or is this just a normal summer thing? Should I open the top cover slightly to allow flow of cool air? During the day there are a large number of workers positioned at the entrance (no reducer) fanning with their wings.
John

Sounds like normal temp. control. You can allow ventilation at the top, use open screen bottom boards, or just let them beard. It is just too hot for them to all get inside and still maintain the proper internal hive temperature.

John,

I have a screened inner cover and I have propped up the outer cover on the back side. I also have a screened bottom board. Yep I also have 100 or so bees hanging out on the front porch. Some are fanning, some are grooming, some are washboarding some are just hanging out.
They do sell slatted racks ventilated outer covers and solar fans to put in the hive I don't have any of that stuff yet lol.
I do enjoy watching them on the porch sometimes 3 deep on top of each other.

I also have the screened IPM bottom. Guess I'll let nature take its course. Don't want it to be to cushy for'em. They might quit foraging all together. See you tomorrow Wally.
John

Hi John, I just read that at night is when the Bs fan all of the nectar that they collected during the day to evaporate the water off, so it may also be very damp within the hive if it's not ventilating well, especially in warm temps. Sounds like they need a screened porch!