Good Bee-Havior

Eric Buechel
Jul 31, 2017
2 min read

Updated: Jul 31

On Sunday, my wife Kathy and I dedicated a significant portion of our day to inspecting our honey bee hives, a task that is both rewarding and essential for the health of our bee colonies. As we approached our apiary, the gentle hum of the bees filled the air, a reassuring sound that indicated our bees were busy at work. We carefully opened the white hive, which has consistently been our most productive, and noted the impressive amount of honey they had already stored.

Recognizing the need for additional space as the bees continue their industrious gathering of nectar, we decided to add another super to the white hive. This super, a box designed for honey storage, will provide the bees with more room to expand their honey reserves as they prepare for the colder months ahead. We took great care during this process, ensuring that we minimized any disturbance to the bees, as we know how crucial a calm environment is for their productivity and well-being.

As we inspected the frames within the hive, it was evident that the bees were thriving. The frames were heavy with golden honey, and the bees were busy capping off cells, a sign that they were preparing for winter. It was a satisfying sight, knowing that these hardworking insects had gathered enough resources to sustain themselves through the cold months ahead. We felt confident that with the additional super, our bees would have ample supplies to survive until spring.

After completing this task, I took a moment to reflect on how these experiences serve as inspiration for my honey bee paintings. Observing the bees up close allows me to capture their intricate details and behaviors in my artwork. I often take photographs during our inspections, focusing on the beautiful patterns of honeycomb and the delicate movements of the bees as they work tirelessly. These references not only help me portray the bees accurately but also allow me to convey the beauty and complexity of their world in my paintings.

In conclusion, our Sunday inspection was not only about managing the hives but also about appreciating the remarkable life of honey bees. The experience deepens my understanding and connection to these creatures, and it fuels my passion for creating art that honors their vital role in our ecosystem. We are grateful for the opportunity to care for them and look forward to seeing how they flourish in the coming months.