Telescoping Beehive Lid (Outer Cover)

A telescoping lid — also called a telescoping outer cover — is the classic deep-rim hive lid with a galvanized metal top that overhangs the box on all sides for maximum weather protection. It's the standard working cover for a Langstroth hive and pairs with an inner cover underneath. Available in 5, 8, or 10 frame.

Features

• Deep rim that telescopes down over the top box
• Galvanized metal top sheds rain and reflects sun
• Overhang on all sides protects the woodenware from weather
• Deep sides help keep the lid from blowing off
• Fits standard Langstroth equipment in 5, 8, or 10 frame

How it works in real life

Set an inner cover on your top box, then drop the telescoping lid over it. The metal-clad lid overhangs the box like a roof, shedding rain away from the joints and keeping sun off the wood, while the deep telescoping sides resist wind. In an exposed yard, still strap the hive or weight the lid in high wind. It's the most weather-protective cover we make — if you move hives or pack them tight, a flat migratory cover travels better (linked below).

Before you order

Choose the size that matches your hive body — 5, 8, or 10 frame. Run it over an inner cover; the inner cover adds an air gap and keeps the bees from propolizing the lid down.

Pairs Well With

• Wooden Inner Cover — the standard solid inner cover that goes underneath
• Screened Inner Cover — a ventilated inner cover for summer airflow
• Migratory Top Cover — flat, flush lid for transport and tight layouts
• Wooden Garden Hive Lid — a decorative peaked lid for display hives

Specifications

• Top: galvanized metal over wood
• Style: telescoping, overhanging rim
• Sizes: 5, 8, or 10 frame Langstroth
• Use: over an inner cover

FAQ

Telescoping or migratory — which should I run?

Telescoping lids overhang the box and shed the most weather, ideal for stationary hives. Migratory covers sit flush so hives pack tight for transport. Backyard keepers usually prefer telescoping; movers prefer migratory.

Do I need an inner cover under it?

It's strongly recommended. The inner cover adds an insulating air gap and keeps the bees from gluing the telescoping lid down with propolis, so it lifts off cleanly.

How do I keep it from blowing off?

The deep sides resist wind, but in an exposed location strap the hive or set a weight on the lid.

Which size do I order?

Match it to your hive body — 5, 8, or 10 frame.