Positioning a new hive.

[jcxbecton]

My and my husband are getting a hive from his dad who keeps hives in Virginia. We putting the hive on our roof in Jersey City and we just wanted to know from others if it's better to have the hive in the shade or in the sun when it's on the rooftop? Does the black tar make it too hot to have in a sunny spot? Will having it in the shade make it too cold in the winter?

[Andrew]

Without seeing the exact location and the many variables it is hard to answer, but, in general terms, it is best if the hive receive early morning light (the earlier the better) and dappled sunlight in the afternoon when the sun is the hottest.  It is true that the tar roof is a very warm place for a hive, so be sure that you have a water supply/source for your bees that is fresh and replenished. 

[Bettina]

Hi,

Some beekeepers also drill a hole in the front of the hive bodies (not the supers) for ventilation. Size it so a regular wine bottle cork can be used to close it if you don't want the extra ventilation and during the winter. I have seen that Chris Harp does this. The bees will also use the hole as another entrance. Make sure you drill the hole in a place so the outer cover still fits on -- and before the bees are in :-)

Bettina