In this engaging episode, Jeff and Becky welcome Frank Linton, a seasoned beekeeper and author with a deep passion for observation hives. Frank shares his unique journey into beekeeping, sparked by his grandfather's influence and reignited years later with his first observation hive. Listeners will be captivated by Frank's enthusiasm and extensive knowledge as he discusses the intricacies and benefits of keeping observation hives. Frank explains the appeal of observation hives, highlighting their educational value and the fascinating insights they offer into bee behavior. He contrasts temporary observation hives often seen at fairs and markets with permanent setups that provide year-round observation opportunities. Listeners will learn about the key considerations for setting up a successful observation hive. Frank emphasizes the importance of having the hive only one frame wide, ensuring it's easy to manage and observe. He also shares practical tips on hive placement, both inside and outside the home, and the importance of maintaining proper lighting to enhance visibility. Frank discusses the maintenance of observation hives, and the benefits of having a backup hive for the occasional bee transfers. This episode provides a wealth of information for beekeepers interested in observation hives, from selecting the right hive to managing it effectively. Frank’s practical advice and firsthand experiences offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to enhance their beekeeping practice with an observation hive. For our Beekeeping Today Podcast listeners, Betterbee is offering a discount code for both sizes of observation hives (OH1 and OH2), good through August 31, 2024. Use the code: OBSERVE when you check out to receive a 10% discount! Listen today! Links and websites mentioned in this episode: Frank's Observation Hive Handbook on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Observation-Hive-Handbook-Studying-Honey/dp/1501707264/ Frank's Hive Tour Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Hive-Tour-Insiders-Guide-Honey/dp/B0B15NJ9B2/ Frank's BeePeeker website: https://thebeepeeker.com Additional websites we recommend! Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com 2 Million Blossoms - The Podcast: https://2millionblossoms.com   ______________   Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected] Thank you for listening!  P