What is bee space?

Bee space is the precise gap within a hive or natural nest that bees won’t fill with wax or propolis. It was first recognised by Lorenzo Langstroth in 1851. Bees fill any gaps above 10mm with wax comb and anything less than 4.5mm with propolysis. Normal bee space is recognised as between 8-9mm. Bees use this space to transverse the hive or nest.

All hives are now built with this bee space. The frames are approximately 8mm shorter than their corresponding box ie brood or super.

If the frames are level with the top of the box then the bee space is at the bottom hence “bottom bee space” or BBS. If the frames are level with the bottom of the box the space is then at the top hence “Top bee space” or TBS

It is vital that in any hive EITHER top or bottom bee space is maintained. There are arguments for TBS and BBS and each system requires a certain technique.

It is usual for British National hives to be bottom bee space and most others to be top bee space.