Platform for beekeeping practice and know-how

Observation at the hive entrance makes it possible to draw numerous conclusions about the health status of a bee colony. Especially in spring, it is important to assess colonies in this way. Anomalies indicate the aspects that require particular attention during the next colony inspection or when an additional examination becomes necessary. Observation at the hive entrance also helps to avoid interventions within the colony under unfavorable weather conditions.

Bees and brood tolerate elevated temperatures better than the Varroa mite. Hyperthermia exploits this fact and reduces the number of mites through thermal treatment. However, damage to the brood cannot be completely avoided. Based on current research findings, negative effects of hyperthermia on bees emerging after treatment also cannot be ruled out.

Our bee populations are not always able to defend themselves against diseases and pests on their own. They therefore rely on you, beekeepers, to support them. In this regard, the fact sheets developed by the Bee Health Service (BHS) can be a valuable resource.

The collapse of a colony is most often multifactorial. Based on four cardinal factors (lack of food, toxins, cold stress, parasites), the colony is subjected to stress, resulting in a reduced immune response and the development of infectious diseases (viral infections and nosemosis).

Asters are perennial herbaceous plants belonging to the Asteraceae (or Compositae) family. Their name derives from the Greek aster, meaning star or flower.

They are ornamental plants widely cultivated in gardens, with more than 250 species. Most originate from North America, some were introduced from Asia, while others are native to Europe.

During May, a simple way to increase one’s apiary or to prevent swarming in an overly strong colony is to create a package bee swarm.

Pollinators use precise cues to identify flowers rich in pollen or nectar: colour, scent … Researchers have discovered that bees are also sensitive to temperature variations between different parts of a flower. These “thermal patterns” enable them to locate the flowers richest in food.

The dandelion, scientifically known as Taraxacum officinale and commonly referred to as “dandelion,” is a flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant (living for several years) that is widely distributed across a wide range of habitats, particularly on nutrient-rich soils, in lowlands as well as in mountainous regions up to elevations of about 2,500 m. Flowering begins in April and reaches its peak in May, but continues at a lower intensity into autumn, especially during dry and warm summers.

The activity of insects, which are cold-blooded animals, is determined by ambient temperature. Their muscles require a minimum level of heat; if this threshold is not met, all activity ceases. To avoid this potentially lethal phenomenon in winter, insects have developed resistance strategies, most commonly through hibernation.

The amateur beekeeper is often well equipped to manage their colonies: observant, curious, motivated, enthusiastic, sometimes idealistic, often well coached, supported by introductory courses and the reading of numerous articles online; they share their concerns with colleagues and appreciate advice or even hands-on help from the “experienced” beekeepers… yet they often have no clear idea of what their hobby actually costs or earns! Reassurance comes from weighing the harvest: great, 15 kg of honey per colony!!! But what did those 30 jars they are so proud of really cost? What is the exact profit from selling the part of the production that was not consumed personally?

The experienced beekeeper asks a different question: what if I turned this hobby into my profession? What is the initial investment, and what turnover do I need to achieve to make a living?

The professional beekeeper must report to their bank and asks: how can I improve the profitability of my operation? How can I depreciate assets in order to renew my equipment?

How can risks related to poor harvest years or diseases be managed?

All three types of beekeepers have access to a user-friendly tool, developed with expertise and precision, to help them answer all questions related to financially responsible beekeeping.

► You can download the calculation tool here

It is a contagious disease of the honey bee caused by a virus known as CBPV, an abbreviation of its English name Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus (chronic bee paralysis virus).