Beehive observation window

On the observation window in a bumblebee nest (bumblebee hive)

Everyone is interested in how bumblebees live in their hives and wants to take a look and observe how things really work in the nest.

If you open the hive, the bumblebees will perceive the light entering the nest as damage to the nesting cavity or an attack on the nest, and will appear on the surface of the lining. The workers will begin to adjust the lining and instinctively try to cover the nest. More aggressive workers will fly out of the hive and defend it.

Therefore, it is good to observe life in the hive using glass/plexiglass, with which you cover the open hive. The bumblebees will not fly out, and you can observe them in peace.

In literature about bumblebees, such an observation is mentioned. Some manufacturers will sell you a plexiglass observation window with their hives.

You might read somewhere that if a nest is covered by such an observation window for a long time, moisture from the nest can condense on it, potentially leading to mould forming. This can happen with a large, strong nest.

However, nowhere do you read how to fit such an observation glass and remove it again, nor that it's rocket science.
Many beginner beekeepers are afraid of handling bees, which is why they leave the observation window on the hive. They are then often surprised why the hive is so damp...

Observation window - placed on the hive
Photo O. Hercog

Manufacturers recommend placing the cover glass on slats that you attach to the hive with small screws/tacks when preparing for the season. You place the observation glass on the slats. However, it cannot be removed unless you make an eyelet/hook/hole in it.

This solution looks nice, but If you are unable to fit the observation window onto the bumblebee hive and then remove it, we do not recommend using it.. 

Insertion extension box for a bumblebee hive – inserted into the hive
Web dealer photo

Solution

• Prepare an observation window from a glass panel, but preferably a piece of acrylic/polycarbonate, which you will cover the entire surface of the hive with, ideally with some overlap.
• Glass is nice and better for photography, but it's heavy and you can break it or injure yourself when handling it.
• Stick some tape around the edges of this window, so you don't get injured.
• You do not need to install any battens in the eaves.

How to use the observation window

• Carefully remove the roof – the tremors are disturbing the residents and they'll come to see what's happening :)
• Remove the cover cloth, then carefully and slowly slide the observation window underneath it. But be careful not to squash any bumblebees.
• You can now observe what's happening in the nest.
• Once you have finished observing, cover the observation window with a cloth and let the nest settle.
• Then carefully pull out the observation window, adjust the damp cloth so that it is free of creases and cover the surprise with the roof.
• If you work quickly, decisively and calmly, bumblebees won't have time to react to this method of fitting the observation window.,
• If you are allergic to bee/bumblebee stings, use protective equipment (veil, gloves, thicker shirt).

Recommendation 

• Test the entire procedure on an empty hive before the season starts.
• You'll see for yourselves how easy it is and your skill will come in handy = He who is prepared is not surprised