Page 79 - Primary Five Science

Stocking the hive

This refers to the process of encouraging bees to occupy an

empty hive.
.
Setting up the hive in its permanent place

 Smear the inside with bee wax and wait for the bees to occu-

py on their own.

 Alternatively, use of a catcher box and transfer a swarm of

bees to the new hive

 Move the new hive far enough or un familiar territory so

that they don’t return to the old one

 Catching a swarm with a swarm catching net.

Feeding in Bees

During drought or in shortage of food, bees can be fed on:

1. Ordinary sugar mixed with water to make a syrup

2. Ordinary water

Harvesting Honey

Honey harvesting is the removal of honey combs from a hive.

Harvesting of honey is done in the evening because all bees

usually settle inside the hive in the evening.

Care should be taken when harvesting honey because bees can

sting if they are disturbed.

Equipment 5. A Smoker – smoke scares and

1. A Bee Veil paralyses the bees; Fuel used in

2. A Bee Keeper’s Glove – to pre- a Smoker: Wood shavings, old

vent himself from being stung. sacks, Dry grass, etc.
3. Suitable protective clothing ; 6. Knife

overall, gumboots, gloves.

4. A Bucket