In the face of Colony Collapse Disorder and the alarming decline in honeybee populations, the role of beekeeping has never been more crucial. Inspired by the initiative of my local newspaper, the San Francisco Chronicle, which houses a rooftop beehive, I embarked on a journey to explore the art of beekeeping. My hope is that the insights gained from my visit will ignite your passion for establishing your own apiary.
Since 2009, colony losses have reached alarming levels, escalating to 34 percent by 2010, as reported by the USDA. This decline, compounded by a historic drop in beekeeping since World War II, underscores the urgent need to bolster our bee populations. As advocates for the environment and animal welfare, we must prioritize the conservation of these vital pollinators.
Meredith May, a dedicated beekeeper and reporter for the Chronicle, graciously offered a do-it-yourself tour of their rooftop beehive. With her expertise and enthusiasm, May shed light on the fundamentals of beekeeping, inspiring novices like myself to embark on this rewarding journey.
What You’ll Need
- Smoker: Choose a size that suits your needs, as larger smokers are easier to keep lit.
- Veil: Essential for protection, opt for a veil and jacket combination.
- Hive Tool: Invest in a quality hive tool, such as the Italian Hive Tool, for various beekeeping tasks.
- Bee Brush: Used for gentle manipulation of bees, a bee brush or feather will suffice.
- Top Feeder: A gallon can with small holes in the cap, facilitating the feeding of syrup to bees.
- Spray Bottle: Fill with syrup for supplementary feeding, ensuring it’s free from contaminants.
- Queen Catcher: Facilitates the gentle capture of the queen bee, minimizing stress.
- Beehives: Prioritize quality hive boxes to ensure the well-being of your colony.
- Bottom Board: Provide a stable foundation for your hive, elevating it off the ground to prevent moisture accumulation.
- Extractor: While desirable, extractors can be costly; consider pooling resources with fellow beekeepers or exploring rental options.
- Queen Muff: A gentle containment device for the queen bee during handling.
Mail Order
Acquiring bees may seem daunting, but it’s more accessible than you might think. Explore platforms like Craigslist or local beekeeping forums for swarm opportunities. Aim for a 3-pound package with an Italian queen, and consider opting for a marked queen for easy identification upon arrival. Notify your local post office in advance to facilitate smooth delivery.
Beehive Feng Shui
Strategic hive placement is essential for promoting healthy flight patterns and foraging behavior. Opt for a dry, sunny location with minimal disturbances, away from neighbors and pets. Ensure the hive entrance faces a wall or barrier to encourage upward flight and provide protection from drafts. Proximity to flowering plants, particularly lavender and purple blooms, enhances foraging opportunities.
Installing Your Bees
While installing bees may seem daunting, numerous resources, including instructional videos, offer guidance for beginners. Prioritize safety and follow recommended procedures to ensure a smooth transition for your colony.
Embarking on the journey of beekeeping is a rewarding endeavor that fosters environmental stewardship and sustains our ecosystem. By cultivating an understanding of beekeeping essentials and embracing sustainable practices, we can contribute to the preservation of these invaluable pollinators.
