beekeeping

Beekeeping is the maintenance of bee colonies, usually in managed hives, by humans for products such as honey, beeswax, and propolis, as well as for pollination of crops and ecosystems. It spans hobbyist, urban, and commercial scales. The most common target species is the western honey bee (Apis mellifera), though other species are kept in some regions.

Beekeeping equipment includes protective clothing, a smoker to calm bees, a hive tool, and one of several hive designs. The Langstroth hive is widely used in many countries and uses movable frames to permit inspection and management. Other designs include top-bar and Warre hives. Regular hive inspections monitor brood, queen health, food stores, and signs of disease or pests. Management practices aim to prevent swarming, ensure nutrition, and control pests and pathogens, often through integrated pest management and, when necessary, chemical treatments or replacement of queens.

In addition to honey production, beekeeping supports pollination for agricultural crops and wild plants, contributing to biodiversity and food security. Beekeepers may harvest honey, wax, and other products, while leaving sufficient stores for the colony.

Common challenges include varroa mites, Nosema, small hive beetles, and pesticide exposure. Health issues can lead to weakened or collapsing colonies, known as colony losses. Practices to mitigate risk include attention to colony health, access to diverse forage, and careful treatment choices.