Scientific beekeeping is a field that combines beekeeping practices with scientific knowledge. This approach is data-driven and encourages beekeepers to base their practices on research and verifiable information rather than tradition or personal opinions. Scientific beekeeping utilizes integrative pest management techniques and standard science, especially biological sciences. Scientific beekeeping encourages responsible practices that benefit both the bees and the environment. It’s not about rigid rules but rather understanding the biology of the hive and making informed decisions.
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The scientific approach seems to be gaining ground as the interest in maintaining healthy bee populations grows. Data collection and the other experimental procedures tend to be completed at commercial apiaries, research colleges, and universities. This scientific perspective on beekeeping led me to design my own beehive insulation and to conduct scientific testing of its effectiveness.
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A “scientific” investigation of my BeeNee Body beehive insulation was undertaken using two beehives. Information regarding ambient temperature, relative humidity, and dew point were monitored for one insulated hive (with bees) and one uninsulated hive (without bees) using a sensor in real time. The two hives were 10 feet apart in an outdoor location that receives a few hours of sunlight each day. Ventilation screens were added on four sides of the hive insulation body to provide adequate air flow while excluding pest penetration. Data from each hive was tabulated once every hour for 24-hour periods (over the course of 11 days in Georgia in May 2022).
Ambient Temperature, humidity and dewpoint were 75.9, 73.1 and 66.2 degrees respectively for the uninsulated hive. Temperature, humidity, and dewpoint were 70.1, 61.8 and 56.3 degrees respectively for the insulated hive. Results indicated that the insulated hive provides more suitable values for the measured variables since this system of insulation kept the hive cooler and dryer. A dewpoint that is lower by 10 degrees (for example) is substantial since at 70 degrees the air gets noticeably uncomfortable.
My observational investigation provides evidence to support the increased usage of beehive insulation by beekeepers. The activity of large numbers of bees is devoted to climate control in the hive. Bees that do not devote their energies to these activities have more energy for other important tasks such as feeding the brood and making honey. This investigation suggested that even during the spring in the moderate climate of the American South, the performance of an insulated hive is superior to that of an uninsulated hive. A sample size of one isn’t a “true” scientific investigation, however it can provide useful decision-making information in local situations.
