DID YOU HEAR THE BUZZ?
Beekeeping is an extraordinary hobby that intertwines closely with the natural world, offering both a serene escape and a rewarding challenge. To get the buzz on this unique craft, we spoke with the lead beekeeper at Band Of Bees. Their passion for these extraordinary insects has only grown over time, providing us with fascinating insights into the world of beekeeping.
Q. Can you tell us a bit about how you first got into beekeeping? What sparked your interest in this unique hobby?
A. I’ve always had a deep fascination with nature and its wonders. When I was younger, I had the fortune of meeting an old-school beekeeper who introduced me to the world of honey bees. From that moment on, I was captivated by these incredible creatures and the vital role they play in our environment.
Q. What is something most people don’t know about beekeeping?
A. One surprising aspect of beekeeping is how relaxing it can be! Despite working with thousands of stinging insects, there is a zen-like calm that comes with being among the bees. Here’s an interesting bee fact: Bees can travel up to 3 miles in search of nectar and pollen.
Q. What is a typical day like as a beekeeper?
A. A typical day involves working outdoors in various settings – rooftops, fields, islands, balconies, you name it. I interact with enthusiastic individuals who care deeply about the environment. My responsibilities include inspecting hives to ensure the bees are healthy, happy and productive. Sometimes, hives require intervention to address potential issues, so a keen eye and experience are essential. This time of year, I’m also busy extracting honey straight from the hive.
Q. What type of bees do you keep?
A. I focus on native bees, which are bred in the area where they live, making them well-suited to their natural environment. Additionally, I maintain a few colonies of Carniolan bees from Slovenia. These bees are known for their gentle nature and diligent work ethic.
Q. What flowers are best to plant in our own gardens to support the bee world?
A. To support bees and other pollinators, consider planting lavender, cosmos and fruit trees. Bees forage from a diverse range of flowers, trees and shrubs. A garden rich in flowering plants and trees significantly benefits bees and supports biodiversity.
Q. Is there anything we should be mindful of when buying honey?
A. Many supermarket honeys are mixed with sugar syrup and often imported from countries with less stringent regulations. To enjoy pure, local honey and support local beekeepers, purchase honey from nearby sources. You’ll taste the difference and contribute to sustainable practices.
Q. What have your bees taught you in life?
A. Bees have taught me the value of teamwork and mutual support. By working together and caring for one another, we can achieve remarkable things.
Q. Describe your urban beekeeping experience in three words.
A. Fun, enlightening and unique
Q. A lot of people are scared of bees because of how they sting! What are ways you personally help them learn the beauty of bees?
A. I believe that getting up close and personal with bees is the best way to appreciate their true nature. Once people see the bees in action, they often develop a deeper understanding and respect for these remarkable insects.
We hope this insight into beekeeping at sparks your curiosity and encourages you to explore the buzzing world of honey bees. Keep an eye out for future urban beekeeping events, hosted by Bandofbees at Leeds Dock for an unforgettable experience that highlights the incredible synergy between nature and urban life.