Please reach us using the contact form on the homepage if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Asian hornets are a serious concern because they’re highly effective predators of honey bees, often hovering outside hives and picking off returning foragers. A single nest can remove thousands of bees in a season, weakening colonies and threatening local beekeeping.
But the impact goes far beyond honey bees. Asian hornets also hunt many other insects, including bumblebees, solitary bees, hoverflies, and even butterflies. These species are vital pollinators and play key roles in the wider ecosystem. When an invasive predator reduces their numbers, the whole biome feels the strain — from wildflowers and crops to the animals that depend on them.
Early detection and reporting are essential to prevent Asian hornets becoming established in the UK.
Asian Hornet identification and reporting guidance:
At the moment , I have 14 full size hives and 3 smaller developing hives called "Nucs". The nucs will either be placed into full sized hives in the spring or combined into another hive.
Only in so far as I sell pure honey with nothing added to it, other than honeycomb depending on the product.
There are very few, if any, beekeepers in the UK who can call their honey organic as bees will forage wherever they want, and unless the hive has organically farmed land for five miles around it in all directions, then it isn't possible to be certain.
Your honey has crystallised because it’s doing something completely natural. Honey is a supersaturated sugar solution, and over time the glucose in it starts forming tiny crystals. Cooler storage temperatures and the presence of natural particles like pollen can speed this up. It doesn’t mean the honey has gone off and is no relection on its quality. If you prefer it runny, just stand the jar in warm water and it will return to liquid without affecting the flavour.
Emphatically yes, not every week, but I do get stung.
Like people, bees have good days and bad days. Sometimes I open a hive and bees who were lovely the week before are less than lovely this time. Also, bees can get scared or trapped between fingers and when that happens they will defend themselves.
A sting is never a good feeling, firstly it's uncomfortable; secondly the bee dies after using its sting.
I had thought about it for years and was finally given a push to give it a try and immediately loved it. It's hard work but it's interesting, rewarding and it really gets you in touch with nature and the environment.
And of course, you get your own fresh, natural and unadulterated honey.
Yes but with caveats. Unless you have a large garden or access to a suitable site where your bees won't pester you, your family, neighbours or anyone else then maybe not, as they are not the best thing to have in a small garden where they can become defensive of their hive. Ask around though and you may well find somewhere local that is more than happy to have a hive or two on their property.
Also, if you've ever had a severe reaction to bee stings then you should probably seek medical advice prior to setting yourself up as a beekeeper.
If you have somewhere to put them, have the money to support your new hobby - I'd say £1,000 minimum to get started, and have the time needed to care for them properly then go for it.
Beekeeping is not just a case of getting a hive, putting bees in it and then getting honey. There's a lot more to it and you need to know what you are committing yourself to before starting. Your best first port of call is your local beekeeping association. Most associations run taster days during the summer and beginner classes in the winter months. Get in touch with your local group and give it a go. For me and people in this area you'd want to look to The Vale and Downland Beekeepers Association who can be found here https://www.valeanddownlandbees.org.uk.
All of that said, I'd recommend it to anyone who has everything they need to do it.