Building a Big Top Feeder for $12

[Kurt Schaefer]

I have bought and made top feeders that do not work, and here is what I learned.

If a top feeder is too tall (taller than a large mayo jar), has too many holes, or has too wide of holes, then the sugar syrup will slowly drain out and the bees do not get much of the syrup.

I bought a good working expensive top feeder, and mimicked aspects of its design to make my own feeders.  I made mine (see photos) by using 2 quart, wide mouth, short height mason jars for $12 each from Amazon.

The 2 Qt size is for volume; the wide mouth to be easy to clean; and the short height to prevent gravity from draining the syrup out.  

I drilled 9 holes within a quarter size circle, using a 1/16 inch drill bit.

I put a 10" needlepoint hoop with window screen mesh on my top board, so that I can change feeders without the bees coming out to bother me, i.e., no need for the bee suit.

It has been 4 hot days and my bees are loving the new feeded, and no syrup is draining out.  

 20250829_111008[1].mp4

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 20250829_113744[1].mp4

 20250829_113842[1].mp4

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Kurt Schaefer
510 928-9464

ktsch...@gmail.com

[Andus Brandt]

Thanks Kurt.  Might try that!

[Andus Brandt]

Hello Kurt,  I notice that the 2nd video shows some plastic vents you've put into the four corners, which you mention very briefly. The 3rd & 4th videos don't show those any more.  Please share your thoughts on this.

Thanks,

Andus