Types of Bees

Beehives

A beehive is a nest for bees and comes in two forms, the natural hive is a structure in which some species of honey bee live an breed. The other type of beehive is man made for the purpose of producing honey. The internals of the beehive are is made up of tightly packed hexangonal cells made of wax, usually referred to as honeycomb.

Natural beehives, are commonly found in rock cavities, hollow trees, and similar darkened secure areas. The hive usually has a single entrance, the actual nest size varies depending on the specific type of bee. South facing entrances are the norm and the hives can be occupied for several years. Bark around the hive entrance is smoothed over by the bees with plant resin, the honey comb is then attached to the walls of the tree or rock cavity. Honey is generally stored in the top parts of thr nest, then pollen cells and then the lower areas are home to the bees.

Beehives are often created artificially, this is for two main purposes, firstly the the production of honey and secondly for the pollination of surrounding crops and plants. These hives are often moved locations to encourage pollination in other areas.