Migratory Top Cover
A migratory top cover is a flat, no-overhang lid that sits flush with the hive body, so hives can be packed side by side for transport or tight apiary layouts. Solid pine, built to take the bumps of a move. Available in 5, 8, or 10 frame.
Features
- Flat solid-pine lid with no overhang — hives butt together
- End cleats for easy lifting and a little airflow
- Stands up to loading and hauling
- Fits standard Langstroth equipment in 5, 8, or 10 frame
How it works in real life
The migratory cover rests directly on the top box — no telescoping lip needed. Because the edges sit flush with the box, you can load hives tight against each other on a truck or pack them close in the yard without lids catching. There's no deep overhang to shed weather, so strap or weight the lids down for a move or in high wind. Many commercial keepers run migratory covers for exactly this reason: they pack and travel better than a telescoping lid.
Before you order
Choose the size that matches your hive body — 5, 8, or 10 frame. For maximum weather protection on a stationary hive, a telescoping cover overhangs the box and sheds more rain (linked below).
Pairs Well With
- Telescoping Outer Cover — deep galvanized-top lid that overhangs for extra weather protection
- Wooden Inner Cover — adds an insulating air gap under the lid
- Wooden Garden Hive Lid — a decorative peaked lid for display hives
Specifications
- Material: solid pine
- Style: flat migratory, no overhang
- Sizes: 5, 8, or 10 frame Langstroth
FAQ
Migratory or telescoping — which should I run?
Migratory covers sit flush so hives pack tight for transport and close yard layouts; telescoping covers overhang the box and shed more weather on a stationary hive. Movers favor migratory; backyard keepers often prefer telescoping.
Do I still need an inner cover?
It's optional. Some keepers run a migratory cover directly on the top box; an inner cover adds an insulating air gap and keeps the lid from being propolized down.
How do I secure it for transport?
Because there's no overhang to grip, strap the hive or weight the lid for moves and in high wind.
Which size do I order?
Match it to your hive body — 5, 8, or 10 frame.
