Optimising inspection time/number of visits (e.g. to minimise stress; better planning)
Optimising visits is important both to reduce bee stress and working time. For this, some simple measures or the use of innovative technology can help. By carefully visiting each hive and recording the data in a field notebook or on a sheet, it is possible to get an overview of the given hive based on the last visit without having to open it.
Today there are also dedicated apps that record and store the data collected.
Marking the colonies on which intervention is needed (e.g. inserting a new queen, checking the outcome of mating, etc.) with signs on the hive (stones, branches, ribbons) makes it possible to identify immediately and from the outside but this information is at risk (e.g. wind can move the branches) and it is not standardized so it is preferable to use a notebook or sheet, record the data and preserve it.
The use of scales and sensors makes it possible to assess the status and progress of the colonies, their development and nectar collection from a distance and without opening them.
Warnings: May depend on the regulations in force in the given country.
Please check out the B-THENET Platform for the Best Beekeeping Practices tailored to each country, co-developed with practicing beekeepers in the National B-THENET Centres of those countries (Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden).
BEST PRACTICES AND INNOVATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BEEKEEPING
Ongoing | 2022-2026
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden