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144 need from the nectar, there are other times when they drink water eagerly. This is especially so in the spring when they are gathering much pollen and little water, and the weather is warm. Running water is more desirable, and if the drip from a faucet flow over a board, or on pebbles, it affords a nearly ideal drinking place for the bees, since they can drink freely and are in no danger of drowning. Some bee-keepers invert a Mason jar filled with water, on a board that has a few shallow groves, perhaps one-eighth inch deep; the water flows out slowly owing to atmospheric pressure; if a little salt be added to the water the bees lap it up eagerly.

MAXIMS FOR FEEDING

Keep close watch of the bees during the entire season, so as to know whether they need feeding or not.

Feed only good honey or the best sugar.

Never feed scorched sugar in the winter, as it will surely kill the bees.

Observe the practice of feeding at nightfall to preclude robbing.

Never spill the syrup or honey around the yard lest robbers be led on to black deeds.

Feed small amounts to stimulate a swarm or nucleus. Bees are susceptible to small encouragements.

Be careful never to cool off the brood-chamber when feeding in early spring or late fall.

See to it that the bees have water near by, especially early in the season.