Event Date
Participants will have the opportunity to learn about and practice many aspects of what is necessary to get the colony started and keep it healthy and thriving. At the end of the course participants will be knowledgeable about installing honey bee packages, monitoring their own colonies and possible challenges with maintaining a healthy colony.
Instructors:
Dr. Elina L. Niño and Bernardo Niño
Lecture modules will cover:
- Honey bee biology
- Beekeeping equipment
- How to start your colony
- Maladies of the hive
Practical modules will cover:
- How to build a hive
- How to install a package
- Inspecting your hive
- Monitoring for varroa mites
Logistics:
The course size is limited to 25 participants per session. Please bring your bee suit/veil if you own one! The $105 registration fee covers the cost of course materials (including a hive tool), lunch and refreshments on the day of the short course. Participants are responsible for obtaining their own lodging. Short course will be held at the Harry H. Laidlaw Jr. Honey Bee Research Facility on UC Davis campus.
At the EL Niño Bee Lab we work with live honey bees. Honey bees are stinging insects and while most stings do not require medical attention, a small portion of the human population can develop a life-threatening allergy. When working in the hives you will need to wear closed-toed and closed-heel shoes, long pants and long-sleeved shirt. Protective gear will be provided for you, but if you prefer you can bring your own. If stung, immediately remove the stinger by scraping it off and wash the area to remove alarm pheromone. If you experience shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea or any other serious symptoms, immediately seek medical attention.