Beekeeping- Reviewing the Improved Mann Lake Top Feeder Insert

I recently received an order from Mann Lake for some hive feeder inserts that I wanted to have on hand for my fall hive feeding. I had been looking for a good price on the feeders and I settled upon the five pack that Mann Lake offered. When I opened the package and put the inserts together (install the screening), I was surprised at how well these were designed and constructed. I felt a side by side comparison to an older style was needed. In my opinion, well worth the money for them.

[@OkieRob]

I've got some of the old style, I just run a bead of silicone to keep the bees from pushing through.

[@6acrefarmstead224]

OkieRob - thanks for the tip. Definitely would work!

[@gulliver1416]

I got my Mann lake feeder and I was happy at first because the plastic insert was easier to wash out. I only put 1 1/2 gallons in and when I went to check it today the entire insert was filled with bees. the bees got past the screen and I had to spend quite awhile getting the bees out. I removed this feeder and went back to my wooden top feeder which holds less fluid but after two years of using it, I never had the problem I did today. I'm very unhappy with the feeder and I'll have to use silicone to fix it. I'll give it one more shot afterward and if it doesn't work, I want my money back.

[@nancynolton6079]

I've done the same as OkieRob with the silicone caulk... just make sure it gets through the wire mesh on both sides. Love these top feeders - no worries of bees flying up when refilling. Like the new MannLake design - thanks for sharing.

[@boonesbees5485]

Sure am missing your videos, hope all is well.

[@natserog]

I found these new improved mann lake feeers a fail. Kill way to many bees.

[@stephen26448]

I am thinking about hot gluing some screen to the wall on the inside of the screen for the bees to be able to climb out on the wall also , can I use aluminum screen that is what I have

[@6acrefarmstead224]

I would do whatever you can to prevent the bees from coming out from the bottom of the screen. Even if they were to get out, you should have a lid on top of the feeder to prevent bees from getting into it in the first place or to cause some robbing. I was either told or someone commented that if you have the old style feeder, to place a bead of silicone along the bottom and edge wall of the screen where it meets the plastic. This should keep all the bees from getting out into the feeder where they will either drown or die because they can't get out. Keep your cover on your feeder so you are only feeding that one hive. Good luck!

[@ronaldlee3278]

Does this feeder sit on top of the inner cover?

[@6acrefarmstead224]

Ronald Lee - no it doesn't. You place this feeder into a 10 frame shallow super. This box sits on top of your hive body like a honey super. I then place the inner cover on top of this feeder then the lid. I have a demo on another video I made in how to make sugar syrup.

[@ronaldlee3278]

Many thanks for your reply.

[@philjanikjr9805]

I like the feeder... I find it a pain when bees die under screen, you have to take screen off to clean them out. HBM

[@6acrefarmstead224]

Phil Janik - yep- I feel your pain on this.