No. 28
HiveMeadow
HiveMeadow
The Mann Lake Hive Top Feeder is a reliable, high-capacity feeding solution that fits seamlessly into standard Langstroth setups.
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The Mann Lake Hive Top Feeder is a reliable, high-capacity feeding solution that fits seamlessly into standard Langstroth setups. Its simple design, sturdy build, and generous syrup capacity make it a favorite among hobbyist and commercial beekeepers alike, though careful leveling and occasional burr comb cleanup are needed for best results.
Derived from this product's specification, features and owner reports.
The Mann Lake hive top feeder is a purpose-built feeding solution designed to sit directly on top of a standard Langstroth hive body, replacing the inner cover during periods when colonies need supplemental syrup. Constructed from durable, food-grade plastic, this feeder is molded to match the exact footprint of a ten-frame hive, ensuring a snug, bee-tight fit that minimizes robbing and reduces the chances of syrup leaking down into the brood chamber. The design typically includes two large reservoirs separated by a center channel, allowing bees to access the syrup from within the hive through a screened or perforated opening without the risk of drowning, since the internal ladder or mesh gives them stable footing while they feed.
Beekeepers appreciate this feeder for its generous capacity, often holding several quarts of syrup, which cuts down on the frequency of hive inspections needed just to refill feed during critical buildup periods in spring or before winter dearth. Because it sits on top of the hive rather than inside the brood box, it does not displace frames, meaning colony space isn't sacrificed for feeding equipment. The flat top surface also allows for a simple telescoping cover or migratory lid to be placed directly over it, maintaining the weatherproof seal of the hive while the feeder is in use, and making it easy to check syrup levels with a quick lift of the outer cover rather than a full hive inspection.
Durability and ease of cleaning are also central to the appeal of the Mann Lake hive top feeder. The rigid plastic construction resists warping and cracking even under fluctuating outdoor temperatures, and the smooth interior surfaces can be scrubbed out between feedings to prevent mold or fermented syrup buildup, which can otherwise attract pests or spread disease. Many beekeepers use this feeder not only for standard sugar syrup but also for supplemental protein feeding mixes or medicated syrup treatments when needed, making it a versatile piece of equipment across different seasons and management strategies. Its straightforward design, compatibility with standard ten-frame equipment, and ability to hold a substantial feed volume make it a practical choice for both hobbyist beekeepers tending a few hives and commercial operations managing many colonies at once.
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