CHAPTER V.. Hives of Straw and Wood.

HIVES OF STRAW AND WOOD.

It is commonly supposed that bees thrive best in straw hives, because the straw absorbs the moisture, and the combs are less liable to mould. For my part, I can perceive no difference. The bees are careful enough to varnish over the interior of the straw hives with a coating of wax, or rather propolis, to prevent the settlement of the moths; and, in the old hives, this varnish is so thick that no moisture can penetrate between the cords of the straw. Wooden hives will also absorb moisture, to a certain extent; and experience has shewn me, that it is a matter of indifference which are employed, except as to the price, according as either material may be more or less abundant in different parts of the country.