Empty Space
Bees use every inch of space
Bees naturally build comb anywhere they find open space inside a hive. If frames are missing or gaps are left between them, the bees will quickly fill that area with their own comb.
When comb is built between frames instead of inside them, beekeepers call this cross-comb aka burr comb. Cross-comb can make hive inspections difficult and may require the comb to be removed or relocated so the hive can be managed properly.
The images below show what cross-comb looks like and how it can be corrected if it occurs.
Cross-Comb Caused by Empty Space
When space greater than "bee space" is left between frames or a frame is missing, bees will often build comb across the gap and utilize the void to continue adding to their nest area. This is commonly called cross-comb and is used by the bees just like the rest of the comb in the hive.
Cross-comb can connect multiple frames together or attach comb to the hive body. When this happens the frames cannot be removed normally and the comb must be separated so the hive can be inspected and managed properly. Extra care should be taken when processing any irregular comb as the queen may find hiding places out of view and can easily be injured when removing the excess wax.
Removing and Salvaging Comb
If comb has been built in the wrong place, it can usually be removed and corrected. Work slowly and carefully while separating the comb from the frames or hive wall.
If the comb contains brood (eggs or larvae), it may be worth saving. The comb can be placed into an empty frame and secured with rubber bands or string so it can be returned to the hive.
Once the frame is placed back into the colony, the bees will continue caring for the brood just as they would with normal comb.
Bees Repair the Comb
After the salvaged comb is returned to the hive, worker bees begin repairing the damage almost immediately.
The bees add wax where the comb touches the frame and gradually attach it permanently. Within a short time the comb becomes part of the frame structure again.
Once the comb is secured, the bees will often remove the rubber bands themselves and carry them out of the hive entrance.
Tip: The best way to prevent cross-comb is to keep all frames installed and pushed tightly together in the hive body. Leaving empty space between frames almost always encourages bees to build comb where it does not belong.
Proper frame spacing during installation helps prevent cross-comb from forming in the first place.
Visit the Installing a Nuc page for more information about preventing cross-comb.
