Backyard Beekeeping

Honeybee History: A Spring Preparation

March 4, 2025 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Health & Pests

We share a long and intimate history with the honeybee, much further back than most would ever imagine. Prep for spring with knowledge.

5 Honey Bees to Consider, Including Buckfast Bees

March 4, 2025 · Angi Schneider · Beekeeping 101

One of the first questions a beekeeper asks is, “What kind of bees should I keep?” There are many bees to choose from: Carniolan, German, Italian, Russian, and Buckfast bees, to name a few. Which is the right one to keep?

How Much Do Beekeepers Make?

January 23, 2025 · Kristi Cook · Honey & Beeswax

How much do beekeepers make per hive? With as few as two successful hives, you can recover expenses to get into the hobby and pocket a little extra cash.

Beginning Beekeeping Supplies: Used Equipment

January 23, 2025 · Kristi Cook · Hives & Equipment

Beginning beekeeping supplies can be expensive, so learn what to consider when purchasing new or used beekeeping equipment.

Chalkbrood Disease and Sacbrood Virus

January 17, 2025 · Kristi Cook · Health & Pests

Be on the lookout for chalkbrood disease and sacbrood virus (SBV) in the springtime when colonies are increasing brood production.

In-Hive Feeders for Honeybees

January 17, 2025 · Kristi Cook · Hives & Equipment

Here’s a little primer on the many forms of in-hive feeders available and how to use them.

How Do Bees Communicate with Each Other?

January 17, 2025 · Patrice Lewis · Beekeeping 101

How do bees communicate with each other? Learn about different honey bee pheromones, the chemical substances secreted by exocrine glands, and the hive tasks they achieve.

Do Bees Eat Meat?

January 16, 2025 · Patrice Lewis · Beekeeping 101

Do bees eat meat? Meet carrion-eating vulture bees that live in Central and South America and feed off dead carcasses to produce meat honey for baby bees to grow.