SHB and Use of Hive Inner Covers

[jataylor]

  Just discovered that I've got SHB.  Saw them on the inner cover, so of course I went to the internet to do all the research I could.  Ran across an article out of Clemson Cooperative Extension that said "In beekeeping operations that have a history of beetle problems, it is recommended not to use hive inner covers or frame spacers as they provide additional hiding places for the beetles to hide and to avoid bee contact and imprisonment."  Wondering if I should forgo my inner cover.  Looking for any and all remedies to get rid of these devils.

[David McLeod]

Welcome to the club. I hate the little devils but still run inners. I find the inner makes for good sport to joust at them with the hive tool when I lift the top cover.
I don't believe it would make a difference one way or the other, if anything I think it helps me to spot them up top where without it they might all be down on the bottom board or in the frames. I don't run spacers or rests but do think they are a hiding place and is just one more reason not to use them.

[AllenF]

I like the inner cover because they do hide there and I can find them easy.   If I find a few, smash them with my thumb, if I find a lot, I will come back with the torch and smoke them.  The whole lot.  Some bees will be loss during the BBQ.   

And if you run without inner covers, change over to migratory top.   Or you will not get your top off once the bees glue everything down.

[scdw43]

A strong hive can handle SHB's in most locations. A weak hive can handle SHB's as long as you don't give them more drawn comb than they can protect and cover. They won't bother foundation.