imperfect comb

My foundation-less beekeeping results in comb with a gentle wave across the frame where bees 1) merged distinct regions of top bar attached comb like a clothing zipper, or 2) transitioned comb construction between worker and drone sized cells.

On Two Bees in a Podcast Michael Smith spoke about imperfect comb.   Here are links to the topic of where bees created 4, 5, 7, 8 and 9-sided non-hexagonal cells:

• Imperfect comb construction reveals the architectural abilities of honeybees
• Stigmergy versus behavioral flexibility and planning in honeybee comb construction
  

 

 

hive marking - unique patterns (not colors)

In The Buzz about Bees, Jürgen Tautz describes how pattern (not color) is useful in assisting bees find their hive address. Inexpensive pre-painted patterns were purchased from a Michaels craft shop, sprayed with clear Krylon and attached to the hive body using Titebond water-resistant glue.