Woodpecker Protection

The varroa treatment is done, the stores are up to strength, reduced entrance blocks in- almost ready for the winter! One thing left to be done- to protect the hives from woodpeckers!!
In the garden there should be no problem, we have never seen or heard woodpeckers; but on the Cordwood site they may be a problem. Hives can sit for years and never be bothered by woodpeckers, but once found it appears they pass on the knowledge about the presence of easy winter food. Beekeepers don't seem sure whether it is the honey, comb or bees and larvae that are the attraction but it is not worth taking the risk when we hear green woodpeckers regularly on site. The hives can be damaged or destroyed, resulting in the colony left open to the elements to die. So many thanks to Rob and Jim who joined us and made a fantastic job of constructing protective cages for the hives. Let's hope the bees appreciate it !!!