Many people are passionate about beekeeping and do it as a hobby.
For someone who wish to start this, he or she would need knowledge of this and would need beekeeper supplies beforehand.
You should not expect to become wealthy with this hobby.
They should also not be concerned about the legalities as it is legal to do this.
Novices are able to purchase standard kits and these kits come with full instructions on how to begin.
The prices of these kits begin at around two hundred and eighty dollars.
Kits can be assembled or packed flat.
The kits usually contain a record book, a veil that has a ring, a hat, feeder, galvanized smoker, stainless steel hive tool and a pair of plastochrome gloves.
Deluxe kits contain extras such as a specialized feeder, smoker cartridges and a jacket.
Auctions are the place to go to for a second hand hive.
It is important that the bees are free from disease and a bee inspector will confirm this.
The square hive is most popular and this is due to its practicality.
While WBC hives look very good, they are not practical to move around your garden.
Hives for commercial purposes are bigger, have a breeding area and are square in shape.
These have less risk of swarming and are good for strong colonies.
Unlike additions to houses, no approval is required for the area where the hive will be.
A large garden is not necessary when starting out with a beehive.
These could be started on rooftops or balconies.
They should however be kept away from human traffic so that no one gets stung.
Hives need to be situated on a flat surface that is level.
These insects are great for gardens as they help with the process of pollination.
This causes crops to be larger and tastier.
Unfortunately, hives can be a bother to people who live in close proximity of bees.
Neighbors should be advised of intentions to keep bees and they could be kept sweet by supplying them with honey.
Local associations can supply one with all relevant information on this topic.
Many people would want to know what to do if they get stung.
When you get stung, simply remain calm.
Try not to move too much as this will just agitate the bees further.
Apparently, some bee venom is able to cure certain ailments.
A doctor should be consulted if this happens.
It does not take much time to look after bees.
The hive should be checked about once per week in the summer time.
During the winter months, check once a month to see if there is sufficient food.
A special valve needs to be released when collecting honey.
The honey is collected from the frames via an extractor.
The honey may then be placed in a jar and labeled.
It is then ready for consumption.
Other products found in the hives can be used for making candles, cosmetics and polish.
Another use is in jelly and mouthpieces.
As is the case with any pets, these can get diseases and they should be monitored for this.
Bi annual checks should suffice.
Keep the hive clean at all times and refer to beekeeper supplies store for any advice that is needed.