What is a potential drawback of a Boardman feeder besides accessibility issues?

The potential drawback of a Boardman feeder, besides accessibility issues, is that it invites robbing. This occurs because the design of a Boardman feeder allows for easy access to the sugar syrup by bees from outside sources. When a feeder is placed on or near the hive entrance, it releases scent signals that can attract not only the bees from the hive but also bees from neighboring colonies. If the feeder remains out for extended periods without being depleted, it can create a situation where the sweet syrup becomes a target for robbers, which can lead to increased aggression among the bees and potential loss of resources from the hive being fed.

Other aspects, such as requiring constant monitoring, might pertain to the management of how much syrup is left or to ensure it isn’t too contaminated, yet they do not have the same immediate impact on the colony’s safety. Cost concerns and the need for special tools are not typically associated with Boardman feeders, as they are designed to be a straightforward and economical way to provide feeding. Therefore, the susceptibility to robbing is a significant consideration for beekeepers when using this type of feeder, marking it as a critical drawback.