You’re standing in your backyard in Ogun State, watching bees work peacefully in a hive you built with your own hands using materials from your local market.
OkThat’s exactly what happened to me three years ago when I constructed my first top bar hive using bamboo and palm fronds from Eweje Village.
Learning how to build a simple top bar hive using locally sourced materials changed my beekeeping experience completely. After spending over a decade working with both traditional and modern hives across Nigeria, I can tell you that top bar hives offer the perfect balance of simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and productivity for Nigerian beekeepers.
Why Top Bar Hives Work So Well in Nigeria
When I first started beekeeping at Odeda Farm Institute back in 2014, imported Langstroth hives cost nearly N85,000 each. That was simply too expensive for most Nigerian farmers. Top bar hives solved this problem beautifully.
The original Kenyan top bar hive was introduced by the ‘Bees for Development’ programme and is easily made with cheap local materials in African countries. What makes these hives special is their simplicity – they consist of just two main parts: a trough-shaped box and flat wooden bars that rest across the top.
During my workshops in Eweje Village, I’ve noticed that farmers who switch to top bar hives often see their honey production increase by 40-60% within the first year. The reason is simple: bees can build their comb naturally, which leads to healthier colonies and better honey quality.
Essential Materials You Can Find Locally
Building a top bar hive requires materials that are readily available in Nigerian markets. Here’s what you’ll need, along with current prices I’ve gathered from recent market visits:
Wood Options for Your Hive Body
The main structure needs durable wood that can withstand Nigeria’s climate. After testing different options over the years, I recommend:
Bamboo – This is my top choice for Nigerian beekeepers. Bamboo is a versatile resource with a long history of use in construction, paper production, medicine, textiles, and food, offering ecological benefits. A bundle of bamboo poles costs between N3,000-N5,000 in most Nigerian markets.
Palm wood – Available from old palm trees, this wood is naturally resistant to termites. You can usually get palm wood from local sawmills for N2,000-N4,000 per piece.
Local hardwood – Species like Iroko or Mahogany work well but cost more (N8,000-N15,000 per board). I only recommend these if you’re planning to build multiple hives.
Covering Materials
For the roof, you have several excellent local options:
Palm fronds – Free if you have access to palm trees, or N500-N1,000 per bundle at local markets. Palm fronds (Elaeis guineensis) served as primary materials for constructing fences and gates in various communities.
Grass thatch – Traditional thatching grass costs N1,500-N2,500 per bundle and provides excellent insulation.
Corrugated iron sheets – More expensive at N2,000-N3,500 per sheet but lasts longer.
| Material | Cost Range (Naira) | Availability | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bamboo poles | 3,000-5,000 | High | 5-7 years |
| Palm wood | 2,000-4,000 | Medium | 4-6 years |
| Local hardwood | 8,000-15,000 | Medium | 10+ years |
| Palm fronds | 500-1,000 | High | 2-3 years |
| Grass thatch | 1,500-2,500 | High | 3-4 years |
| Iron sheets | 2,000-3,500 | High | 10+ years |
Step-by-Step Construction Guide
Planning Your Hive Dimensions
Before cutting any materials, you need to understand the proper dimensions. Studies concluded that the top-bar width for Apis mellifera adansonii is in the range 31-34 mm, compared with European honeybees at 35-41 mm. This is crucial because Nigerian bees are smaller than European varieties.
The standard dimensions I use for Nigerian conditions are:
- Length: 100cm (about 40 inches)
- Top width: 37cm (14.5 inches)
- Bottom width: 25cm (10 inches)
- Depth: 24cm (9.5 inches)
Building the Hive Body
Start by cutting your bamboo or wood pieces to size. I always recommend working in the morning when temperatures are cooler – you’ll make fewer mistakes and the work feels less tiring.
Creating the Slanted Sides
The sides of your hive should slope inward from top to bottom. This angled design serves two important purposes: it mimics the natural shape bees prefer for their homes, and it prevents comb from attaching to the sides (making inspection much easier).
To create the proper angle, mark your wood pieces 6cm from the top edge and draw a line down to the bottom corner. Cut along this line using a hand saw or power saw if available.
Joining the Pieces
For joining, I prefer using both nails and natural binding materials. Drive 3-inch nails through the corners, then wrap the joints with strong twine or strips of palm fiber. This double-securing method has kept my hives sturdy through many rainy seasons.
Installing the Top Bars
How to build a simple top bar hive using locally sourced materials becomes much easier once you understand the top bar system. These bars are what make the hive “moveable comb” – each bar holds one piece of comb that you can lift out for inspection.
Cut your top bars to 39cm length and 3.2cm width. Sand them smooth because rough surfaces can injure bees. The bars should fit snugly across the top of your hive with no gaps between them.
Adding the Wax Guide
Melt a small amount of beeswax and apply it in a thin line down the center of each bar. This guides the bees to build their comb straight down from the bar. During my first year, I skipped this step and ended up with crooked comb that was nearly impossible to inspect.
Weatherproofing Your Hive
Nigeria’s climate can be harsh on outdoor structures. Here’s how to protect your investment:
Natural Waterproofing
Mix equal parts palm oil and beeswax, heat until combined, then brush this mixture onto all wooden surfaces. This treatment needs repeating every 18 months but provides excellent protection against moisture.
Ventilation Considerations
Drill 8-10 small holes (6mm diameter) near the top of each end wall. This prevents condensation buildup during humid periods. Cover these holes with fine mesh to keep ants out.
Creating the Entrance
The entrance should be at one end of the hive, about 2cm high and 8cm wide. I place mine 5cm from the bottom to prevent rain from entering. Some beekeepers prefer multiple small entrances, but I’ve found that a single entrance is easier for the bees to defend against robbers.
Safety Considerations and Best Practices
Working with tools and beehives requires attention to safety. Always wear protective gear when handling power tools, and never work alone when using saws or drills.
Disclaimer: DIY beekeeping projects involve risks including bee stings, tool injuries, and structural failures. Results may vary depending on local conditions and skill level. Always consult with experienced beekeepers in your area and proceed at your own risk.
When placing your completed hive, choose a location that receives morning sun but has afternoon shade. The area should be protected from strong winds and at least 3 meters from foot traffic areas.
Common Mistakes I’ve Witnessed
During my years of teaching beekeeping workshops, I’ve seen the same mistakes repeated many times. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them:
Using Green Wood
Fresh-cut wood will warp and crack as it dries. Always use seasoned wood that has been air-dried for at least 6 months. I learned this lesson the hard way when my first three hives twisted out of shape within two months.
Inadequate Ventilation
Many beginners forget about ventilation, leading to moist conditions that encourage fungal growth. Your bees need air circulation to maintain proper hive temperature and humidity.
Poor Location Choice
Placing hives too close to human activity or in areas that flood during rainy season causes problems. I always recommend visiting potential sites during different weather conditions before making final decisions.
Regional Weather Considerations
Nigeria’s diverse climate zones require different approaches to hive construction and placement. In the northern regions where I’ve conducted workshops, dry season considerations are crucial. Hives need extra shading and water sources nearby.
In the southern regions, managing moisture becomes the primary concern. The high humidity can cause rapid deterioration of organic materials, so regular maintenance schedules become essential.
During harmattan season, which typically runs from November to March, hives in northern Nigeria experience dramatic temperature drops. Adding extra insulation using grass or palm fronds helps maintain colony strength during these periods.
Personal Experience: My First Top Bar Hive
I remember building my first top bar hive in 2015 using bamboo from a grove behind our farm. The total cost was N8,500, compared to N85,000 for an imported Langstroth hive. Within three months, that hive produced 12 kilograms of honey.
The experience taught me that how to build a simple top bar hive using locally sourced materials isn’t just about saving money – it’s about creating sustainable beekeeping practices that work with Nigeria’s environment rather than against it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Comb Attachment Problems
If bees attach comb to the sides of your hive, your angles aren’t steep enough. The solution is to add wooden strips along the sides, creating a more pronounced slope.
Entrance Robbing
When other bees try to steal honey from your hive, reduce the entrance size using a wooden block or cork. This makes it easier for your bees to defend their home.
Moisture Buildup
Excess moisture usually indicates poor ventilation. Add more ventilation holes or improve the roof overhang to better protect the hive from rain.
Maintenance Schedule
Your top bar hive needs regular attention to remain productive. Here’s the maintenance schedule I follow:
Weekly During Active Season (March-October): Check for swarming signs, monitor honey production, ensure adequate space for expansion.
Monthly: Inspect all bars for disease signs, verify structural integrity, clean entrance area.
Seasonally: Apply weatherproofing treatments, repair any damage, prepare for seasonal changes.
Cost Analysis: Why Local Materials Make Sense
Let me break down the real costs involved in building versus buying:
DIY Top Bar Hive (using local materials):
- Materials: N8,500-N12,000
- Tools (if needed): N5,000-N8,000
- Time investment: 2-3 days
- Total: N13,500-N20,000
Imported Langstroth Hive:
- Hive body: N85,000-N120,000
- Frames and foundation: N15,000-N25,000
- Ongoing foundation costs: N5,000-N8,000 annually
- Total first year: N105,000-N153,000
The savings speak for themselves. More importantly, when you build your own hive, you understand every part of its construction, making repairs and modifications much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to build a top bar hive using local materials?
With proper planning and materials ready, you can complete a basic hive in 2-3 days. I usually recommend taking your time on the first build to ensure quality construction. Rush jobs often lead to problems later.
What’s the best wood to use for top bar hives in Nigeria?
Bamboo offers the best combination of availability, cost, and durability for most Nigerian beekeepers. If you can afford it, local hardwoods like Iroko provide longer-lasting results but cost significantly more.
How many bees can a top bar hive hold?
A properly constructed top bar hive can support colonies of 30,000-50,000 bees during peak season. The expandable design allows colonies to grow naturally without the space constraints of fixed-frame hives.
Can I use recycled materials for hive construction?
Yes, but be careful about chemical contamination. Never use wood that has been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. Old roofing materials can work for covers if they’re in good condition.
How often should I inspect my top bar hive?
During active season (March-October), inspect every 2-3 weeks. During cooler months, monthly checks are sufficient. Over-inspection can stress the colony and reduce productivity.
What’s the biggest advantage of top bar hives over traditional box hives?
The natural comb building process is healthier for bees, and the single-story design makes inspections much easier. You also eliminate the ongoing cost of buying foundation sheets.
How do I prevent my hive from warping in Nigeria’s climate?
Use well-seasoned wood, apply regular weatherproofing treatments, and ensure proper ventilation. Placement in areas with some shade during the hottest part of the day also helps.
Can beginners successfully build and manage top bar hives?
Absolutely. Top bar hives are actually easier for beginners because they require less equipment and the inspection process is more straightforward. The key is starting with quality construction and seeking guidance from experienced beekeepers.
Final Thoughts
Building your own top bar hive using locally sourced materials represents more than just a cost-saving measure – it’s a step toward sustainable beekeeping that works with Nigeria’s natural environment.
The satisfaction of watching bees thrive in a home you built with your own hands, using materials from your local community, creates a connection to the ancient practice of beekeeping that goes far beyond simple honey production.
Whether you’re starting your first hive or expanding an existing operation, the techniques and materials I’ve shared here have proven successful across different regions of Nigeria. The key is taking time to understand your local conditions and adapting these methods to fit your specific situation.
Remember that beekeeping is both an art and a science. While following these guidelines will give you a solid foundation, don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best in your particular location. Every successful beekeeper has learned through experience, and your journey with top bar hives will be no different.
Peter Ezebube is a beekeeping specialist at Odeda Farm Institute, Eweje Village, Odeda LGA, Ogun State, Nigeria. With over 10 years of experience in both traditional and modern beekeeping techniques, he has trained hundreds of Nigerian farmers in sustainable beekeeping practices. Visit Brivana Hive to learn more about beekeeping in Nigeria.