Why keep bees?

It is unlikely that any two beekeepers will give the same answer to this question. For commercial honey producers it is obvious. Bees are a major pollinator of fruits, vegetables and flowers - those with an interest in horticulture and agriculture will certainly appreciate the contribution these tiny creatures make.

In the UK, the majority of beekeepers are amateurs. They find the bee's ability to organise themselves fascinating. Just observing the bees going out and coming back with pollen, nectar and propolis is mesmerising in itself. Many beekeepers look forward to their honey harvest and subsequently using it for culinary purposes or profit.

Most beekeepers will tell you that the more they find out, the more they want to know - they become 'drawn in' by the subject. You only have to come along to a branch meeting to discover what a varied group of people beekeepers are. There are some that just can't read enough about the subject, for some it is the honey, others the wax and other hive products. Those who enjoy carpentering may make their own hives, horticulturalists will be propagating 'bee-friendly' plants and those with an interest in educating will be promoting the craft to new members. Beekeepers form a large and supportive community.

Perhaps the most compelling reason to keep bees is their current plight regarding reduced numbers and disappearances. If we can encourage bees to healthily increase their populations, we will all benefit.

10 amazing facts about bees
Link to video on BBC