Featured Stories
Which Bees are Attracted to Douglas Fir Sap?
On a frame that has emerged queen cells and capped queen cells, is it most likely that the capped cell contents have been killed and of no use in trying to raise a queen in a nuc? Are these cells eventually torn down by the workers?
Read More
Which is Better for a Layens Hive: Fumigation or Vaporization of Oxalic Acid?
I am a new beekeeper and want to know what your thoughts are on using the fumigation method vs the vapor method? I am using Layens Horizontal Hives configuration and really don’t see a good way to use vapor equipment and see the fumigation method (fogging) as a better method for my application.
Read More
How Do I Keep Bees Away from My Pool?
It is well-known that honey bees are attracted to chlorine in pools. Although bees have eyesight that is perfect for finding flowers and evading enemies, it’s not so good for finding water.
Read More
Uncapped Honey in the Super?
Uncapped honey in your supers? Learn what you need to watch for to identify why it’s uncapped and what you can do to help the honey bee capping process.
Read More
Exploring the Mason Bee Life Cycle
Often mistaken for flies, mason bees are some of the earliest spring fliers. But the timing of the mason bee life cycle varies with each individual species — and we in North America have an enormous variety.
Read More
How do Bees Mate?
An interesting and deadly dance takes place all across the world; in fact, it’s necessary for human survival and yet goes unnoticed by humans year after year. The dance is actually the mating ritual of honey bees.
Read More
Why are There Dead Bees in Front of the Hive?
There are lots of dead or dying bees in front of the hive. Several hundred per day for the last 2-3 weeks. Some are dead; others are ‘shivering,’ weak, unable to fly, maybe walking a little.
Read More
Should I Perform Beehive Inspections with Supers On?
As a general rule, I try not to go into the brood boxes when the honey supers are on. There are a few reasons for this. Here are three reasons.
Read More
A Shortlist for Long-term Beekeeping Success
What could be more exciting? You’ve installed your first package of honey bees into a freshly painted hive.
Read More
What Bugs Your Bees in Summer? Know the Lineup of Beekeeping Pests.
While many creatures may choose a honey bee hive for its warmth and protection in winter, other animals are attracted to bee hives in summer. Most of these animals do not attempt to enter the hive — after all, that’s an intimidating proposition.
Read More