Are honey bees aggressive?

Many aspects of a honey bee colony are cyclic in nature, and aggression is no exception. Honey bees have the ability to be aggressive at any time, but certain things set them off. In the late summer and early fall, more of these conditions exist. read more

Honey bees and wasps are not the only creatures preparing for winter. Colonies in the fall may be attacked by raccoons, opossums, or skunks. Regular visits by any creature—including a beekeeper—may make honey bees more aggressive. Rainy weather, especially when it comes with heat and high humidity, makes bees cranky as well. read more

Bees become more aggressive for a number of different reasons. Consider the following possibilities, and see whether any apply to your situation with your beehives: A newly established colony almost always starts out gentle. read more

Most hives will behave differently in late summer and fall. Every fall new beekeepers call and ask us why their bees seem more defensive in the fall. Here’s why: 1) It’s hotter and more humid. 2) There is usually a nectar dearth. 3) Because there is a dearth, more bees are robbing other hives, thus, hives are more protective against being robbed. read more

Most hives will behave differently in late summer and fall. Every fall new beekeepers call and ask us why their bees seem more defensive in the fall. Here’s why: 1) It’s hotter and more humid. 2) There is usually a nectar dearth. 3) Because there is a dearth, more bees are robbing other hives, thus, hives are more protective against being robbed. read more

A very non-aggressive bee raised in a nurturing chemical free hive, smelling the sunflowers. Since sensationalized stories about aggressive bees seem to be hitting the news lately, I thought it would be a good idea to post about dealing with an aggressive hive. read more