Hive types: A guide

There are several types of beehives used in beekeeping. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, and beekeepers may choose one based on factors such as the bee species, climate, beekeeper’s preferences, and management practices. Here are some common types of beehives:

1. Langstroth Hive: The Langstroth hive is the most popular and widely used beehive around the world. It was invented by Rev. Lorenzo Lorraine Langstroth in the mid-1800s. This hive consists of rectangular boxes with removable frames that hang vertically. It allows bees to build comb and store honey and brood in the frames. The standardized size of these hives makes it easy to interchange frames and supers (additional boxes) between hives.
2. Top-Bar Hive: The top-bar hive is a horizontal hive design, and it is simpler in construction compared to Langstroth hives. Instead of removable frames, it has wooden bars placed at the top, along which bees build their comb. Top-bar hives are favored by some beekeepers for their more natural comb-building process, but they may require more frequent attention and management.
3. Warre Hive: The Warre hive is a vertical top-bar hive system. It was developed by Abbé Émile Warré in the early 20th century. This hive uses smaller boxes that are added to the bottom of the stack as the colony expands. The bees build comb downwards, which is considered a more natural way for them. Warre hives are designed to mimic the bees’ natural tendencies and are relatively low-intervention systems.
4. Flow Hive: The Flow Hive is a modern invention that gained significant attention in recent years. It is based on the Langstroth hive design but incorporates a unique honey extraction system. It has pre-formed plastic honeycomb cells that can be split open to release honey without the need for traditional honey extraction methods.
5. Top-Bar Long Hive: This is an extended version of the top-bar hive, providing more space for the bees to build comb along the length of the hive. Long hives may offer advantages for certain climates or management preferences.
6. Skep Hive: Skep hives are traditional, dome-shaped hives made from straw or wicker. They have been used for centuries but are now less common due to the challenges they pose for hive inspection and management.
7. Horizontal Hive: Horizontal hives come in various designs but generally have frames or bars laid out horizontally. These hives may have multiple sections or compartments for beekeeping purposes.
8. British National Hive: This type of hive is commonly used in the United Kingdom. It is a variation of the Langstroth hive but with specific standardized measurements and components used in the UK.

Remember that beekeeping practices and regulations may vary between regions, and certain hive types might be more prevalent in specific areas. The choice of beehive depends on the beekeeper’s objectives, the environment, and the needs of the bee colony.