The Stand
One modern problem that Abbé Warré didn't have to deal
with is Chinese Varroa mites. These major pests didn't show
up here until the 1980's, but they have become the biggest
headache beekeepers have to deal with today.
The modern Warré hive uses a screened bottom board
which lets the mites fall through to the ground, where
spiders eat them, and also allows a count of mites in the
hive. This bottom screen may be covered with a solid
floor to prevent winter heat loss.
The stand has a bee-sized opening in front of which is a
landing platform. This platform is not strictly necessary
but is popular with beekeepers because it lets you
observe the bees coming and going. The platform slopes
down so that rain does not run into the hive. The slope
also helps the bees get rid of unwanted material in the
hive more easily.
The back of my stand can be removed, revealing a shelf on which a screened tray
and wooden bottom can be slid in and out without disturbing the bees unduly. This
arrangement allows for a screened bottom or a solid bottom to the hive. A sheet of
oiled paper can also be used with the screen to trap falling mites, a technique used
to estimate the degree of infestation (if any) of Varroa mites in the hive.
