Bush makes a good point about internal hive conditions. In short, the bees know best. How would one determine optimal: gas levels, humidity, temp, space, diet etc in a hive? Like guessing at climate change, to many variables. I know we could ask Greta! Lol
Interesting observation this day, Tuesday 55F, I have one styrofoam hive that I wanted to try, just for the enjoyment of my hobby. The styrofoam hive was the most active hive in my apiary with bees just a buzzin on the entrance. Like it was spring or something. Lots of activity on the styrofoam entrance, more than the other 15 or so hives.
Now will this cause the bees to consume more stores, or less???? I?ll tell ya next Spring. However one hive will not will not tell us any significant value. But it is fun to try different stuff.
I purchased two, styrofoam, 6 frame nucs which I plan to use this Spring. Again, just for the enjoyment of trying something new, something different. Honeybees are so adaptive, they fascinate me and provide me with so much enjoyment. And don?t forget the challenge of raising bees! Always learning, I am.
Best to your Bees.
Van