This pathway of honey bees occurred within minutes of placing a feeder on top of one of my colonies. I immediately took a step back to wonder about what exactly was going on here. The feeder is a one gallon pail and was placed upside down on top of the thin inner cover board that is below the lid and spacer.
There are two ventilation holes cut into the inner cover on either side of the center oval opening that is normally in the middle of most purchased inner covers. These two additional holes have window screen covering them so the bees are not allowed access down through the inner cover when the feeder is in place. Since the bees cannot go down through the cover, they quickly formed a line of connection and therefore communication to the front of their colony. In my opinion, they are also forming a blockade of sorts to stave off any possible robbers. I may not have this right exactly, but it never ceases to amaze me how intricate the lowly honey bee was created. I am thankful to the Creator of the bees. Stop and smell the flowers. Stop and be puzzled by the bees. Stop and give thanks to the Creator. In His Journey, in His Wonder-filled adventure of beekeeping, always amazed by my honey bees, Saint Mary.
P.S. Upon closer examination I witnessed the nasanov phenomenon where the worker bees (all females) have their butts up in the air and are fanning their wings to send their scent saying “here is our colony, you can find it, come on home.” It is another fascinating display of the connectivity of our beloved honey bee.
It is tru what they say about how smart bees are!! Very interesting, thanks for sharing.
Yes, so very true. I hope you keep learning from them.
I have seen the nasanov phenomenon and found it so intriguing. Bees are truly amazing.
Yes bees are truly amazing! The Nasanov phenomenon is just the beginning. This fall I was able to witness a honey bee manufacturing wax scales. Maybe that would make a good blog topic.