For a Master Beekeeper, that realization and certification is both the end of a journey and the beginning of an adventure! Although there are now several ways to become a Master Beekeeper, the most recognized way is to test through the Eastern Apiculture Society (henceforth referred to as EAS) at their annual conference.

I’ll bet you hadn’t put much thought into what happens to bees who die inside the hive. No shame, I hadn’t either. But in the fascinating social world of bees, no stone goes unturned. And so, for at home departures, there are undertaker bees.

Nope...this has nothing to do with moral tests, virtues, or your use of the force. I’m talking about honey 🍯. Many folks don’t know that honey is different at different times of the year. The bee season is largely dictated by flows and dearths. During a nectar flow, everything is in bloom and food for the bees is plentiful. This generally starts early in the spring when the dandelions and clover start coming in and runs into the heart of summer.

Or maybe more clearly, how do bees live in nature at all, when my bees get mite treatments, have their nutrition supplemented during dearth’s, and have my knowledgeable care during the year but can’t survive the winter. I’ve been asking this question since I started beekeeping, and I’ve recently got some answers. No no, don’t worry...wild bees are doing just fine out there 😉🐝😉