Welcome to Beekeeping For Newbees! This podcast is your ultimate resource for learning how to keep honeybees. Whether you're just starting out or looking to dee...
Beekeepers across the U.S. are reporting massive honey bee colony losses—some exceeding 50%. What’s behind this sudden crisis? In this episode, we break down the facts, discuss possible causes, and explore what it means for new and experienced beekeepers alike.What’s Inside This Episode:Shocking colony loss statistics and financial impactHow this crisis compares to Colony Collapse DisorderThe role of Varroa mites, pesticides, and unknown factorsWhat researchers are doing to uncover the causePractical steps you can take to protect your beesWhy Listen to This Episode?If you're a beekeeper or simply care about pollinators, this is a must-listen. Understanding the challenges facing honey bees today is key to making informed decisions about hive management.🔗 More Resources & Show Notes:Project APIS-M: https://www.projectapism.orgUSDA ARS Bee Research Lab: https://www.ars.usda.govSubmit an ELAP Claim: https://www.fsa.usda.gov🐝 Join the Beekeeping for Newbees Community:💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🌐 Website & Resources: https://beekeepingfornewbees.com☕ Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees
--------
27:57
Episode 130 - Bees in the News (26): QR Codes, Varroa Timing, and Brainy Bees 📰🐝
This week's Bees in the News is packed with fascinating research and unexpected discoveries! Penn State researchers explore how native bees recover when honeybees leave an area, scientists use QR codes to track bee movements, and a new study highlights the importance of varroa treatment timing. Plus, honeybees might have math skills—seriously! And finally, a fun piece breaking down Bee Movie inaccuracies. Tune in for all the latest buzz!What’s Inside This Episode:Native bee populations rebound after honeybees move out.QR codes on bees?! Researchers track foraging behavior.Timing varroa mite treatments properly to reduce colony losses.A surprising study suggests honeybees prefer numbers arranged left to right.A Bee Movie critique—how accurate was Hollywood’s take on bees?Why Listen to This Episode?Stay up to date with cutting-edge bee research.Learn about beekeeping best practices and what science says about varroa control.Enjoy a lighthearted breakdown of bee-related pop culture.Support the Show:Join the discussion on Discord: https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJSubscribe to the podcast: https://beekeepingfornewbees.buzzsprout.comDonate: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees
--------
15:40
Episode 129 - Why I Focus on Langstroth Hives & A Hard Conversation 🐝
Why do I only talk about the Langstroth hive? While there are many hive styles out there, I almost exclusively focus on this one. In this episode, I explain why it is my go-to choice for new beekeepers and why I rarely highlight alternatives.But today’s episode also takes a serious turn. At the end, I open up about a difficult topic—mental health and the recent loss of someone who took their own life. If this is a sensitive subject for you, please listen with discretion.What’s Inside This Episode:Why I primarily discuss the Langstroth hive and its advantages for new beekeepers.Brief thoughts on top bar, Warre, and horizontal hives.The importance of keeping beekeeping simple and accessible.A serious discussion about mental health and suicide in the veteran and first responder community.Why Listen to This Episode?Have you ever wondered why I always focus on the Langstroth hive? In this episode, I explain why it is the most practical choice for most beekeepers and why I rarely highlight other hive types. This episode also takes a more serious turn as I discuss an important topic—mental health and suicide awareness.Support the Show:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping for Newbees is your ultimate guide to starting and thriving in the world of beekeeping. Packed with practical advice and personal stories, this podcast helps you make the most of your beekeeping journey.
--------
45:39
Episode 128 - Where Did My Queen Go? Understanding Seasonal Brood Breaks 👑🐝
What’s Inside This EpisodeHave you ever opened your hive and suddenly thought, I lost my queen!? You’re not alone! Many beekeepers, especially in their first few years, experience this moment of panic. But before you jump to conclusions, let’s talk about the real reasons why your queen might seem to disappear—especially during seasonal brood breaks. In this episode, we explore:Why worker bees sometimes consume eggs laid by the queen.How seasonal dearth affects brood production.The role of nurse bees in regulating egg-laying.How a queen’s size and activity change based on environmental factors.What to look for before assuming your queen is missing or dead.If you’ve ever worried about queen loss, this episode is a must-listen!Why Listen to This Episode?Understanding the natural rhythms of a colony can prevent unnecessary interventions and help you make informed decisions as a beekeeper. Whether you’re new to beekeeping or a seasoned pro, knowing when (and if) to take action is crucial for hive health.Support the Show & Stay Connected📢 Join our Discord Community: https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @BeekeepingForNewbees🎙 Listen to more episodes: https://beekeepingfornewbees.buzzsprout.com💛 Support the show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the PodcastBeekeeping for Newbees is your go-to resource for practical, experience-based beekeeping knowledge. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your skills, we cover everything from hive management to seasonal beekeeping challenges. Tune in and grow with us!
--------
33:21
Episode 127 - Should You Buy Bees from the Same Place Every Year? 🐝🤔
In this episode, I tackle a common question from the beekeeping community—should you buy your bees from the same supplier every year? We explore key factors to consider when purchasing bees, including genetics, supplier reliability, and local adaptation. Whether you're a new beekeeper or a seasoned pro, understanding the benefits and potential pitfalls of sticking with one supplier is crucial for the success of your apiary.What’s Inside This Episode:Supplier Reliability: Key signs of a trustworthy source.Genetic Diversity: The importance of introducing new genetics to your apiary.Local Adaptation: Why bees raised locally may outperform others.Overwintered Nucs vs. Packages: Understanding your options.Red Flags to Watch For: Avoiding common mistakes when sourcing bees.Why Listen to This Episode?If you're wondering whether sticking with the same bee supplier is the right move or if it's time to explore new options, this episode will give you valuable insights to make an informed decision.Support the Show:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is your go-to podcast for practical advice, real-world insights, and the tools you need to succeed as a beekeeper. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Welcome to Beekeeping For Newbees! This podcast is your ultimate resource for learning how to keep honeybees. Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your knowledge, we cover everything you need to know: essential tools, hive components, seasonal tasks, and all the tricks of the trade to help you succeed. If you’re new to beekeeping, this is the perfect place to begin your journey." 🐝
Ireland