Our new bee observation hive has arrived at the Sunflower Nature Center, the building near the North Park playground. The observation was awarded to the Parks Foundation of Franklin Park through a grant from The Bee Cause Project & Whole Kids. Thank you to The Hive: Chicago’s Beekeeping Supply Store for providing us with the bees!
An observation hive is a specialized beekeeping structure designed to allow people to safely observe the inner workings of a beehive. Here’s how it works:
- Structure: An observation hive is typically a vertical, glass-encased structure, often mounted on a wall or stand. The glass walls allow viewers to see inside the hive without disturbing the bees.
- Bee Access: The hive is connected to the outside through a small tunnel or tube, allowing bees to come and go freely. This tunnel often leads to the exterior of a building or structure where the hive is located.
- Frames: Inside the observation hive, there are usually a few frames that hold the honeycomb, similar to those in a traditional beehive. These frames provide space for the bees to build their comb, store honey, and raise brood (baby bees).
- Bee Activity: Viewers can watch the bees as they go about their daily activities, such as foraging, building comb, feeding larvae, and tending to the queen. The glass enclosure allows for close observation without disturbing the bees or risking stings.
- Educational Tool: Observation hives are often used for educational purposes in nature centers. They provide a unique opportunity to learn about bee behavior, the structure of a colony.
- Safety: The hive is designed to keep the bees contained while allowing them to access the outdoors. This ensures the safety of both the bees and observers.
Check out our latest video from our Sustainability Spotlight Series that explains more about the observation hive: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1195489738352933