Apiculture
The Lives of Bees by Thomas D. Seeley is a deep dive into how wild honeybee colonies survive without human intervention. Seeley challenges modern beekeeping methods, arguing that bees thrive best when left to their own natural behaviors. He blends science with practical insights, showing how feral colonies adapt, resist disease, and manage resources. A must-read for anyone serious about bees—whether you’re a beekeeper or just fascinated by nature’s intricate systems.
Honey From the Earth by Eric Tourneret is a breathtaking journey into the world of beekeeping across cultures. Through stunning photography and rich storytelling, it showcases the diverse ways humans and bees have worked together for centuries. From wild honey hunters to traditional hive keepers, this book is a deep dive into the beauty, skill, and history behind beekeeping worldwide. If you love bees, honey, or the connection between people and nature, this one’s a must-read.
The Beeing: Life Inside a Honeybee Colony by Eric Tourneret and others is a stunning visual and scientific exploration of the hive. With breathtaking photography and deep insights into bee behavior, this book brings the hidden world of honeybees to life. It’s part art, part science, and fully mesmerizing. Whether you’re a beekeeper, a bee enthusiast, or just appreciate nature’s brilliance, this book is a must-have for your collection.
Keeping Bees with a Smile by Fedor Lazutin flips conventional beekeeping on its head, advocating for a low-intervention, bee-centric approach. Lazutin champions extra-deep hives, minimal management, and letting bees live as nature intended. It’s a refreshing take that prioritizes healthy, resilient colonies over high yields. If you’re looking for a more natural, hands-off way to keep bees—and actually enjoy the process—this book is well worth the read.
Following the Wild Bees by Thomas D. Seeley is part adventure, part science, and all about the lost art of bee hunting. Seeley takes readers into the woods, tracking feral honeybee colonies using old-school techniques that feel almost primal. It’s a fascinating look at how bees navigate, forage, and thrive in the wild—perfect for anyone who loves hands-on natural history. Whether you're a beekeeper or just love the outdoors, this book is a reminder of the magic in slowing down and observing.
Pollination Power by Heather Angel is a visually stunning exploration of the unsung heroes of our ecosystems—pollinators. Through incredible photography and engaging science, Angel captures the intricate relationships between plants and their pollinators, from bees to bats. It’s a fascinating look at nature’s brilliance in action. Whether you’re into beekeeping, gardening, or just appreciate the delicate balance of life, this book is a beautiful and insightful read.
Raising Honeybee Queens by Gilles Fert is a hands-on guide to breeding strong, resilient queens. Fert breaks down the process into clear, practical steps, making queen rearing approachable for both beginners and experienced beekeepers. He covers selection, grafting, and colony management with a focus on sustainability and bee health. If you want to improve your apiary by raising your own queens instead of relying on commercial stock, this book is a solid resource.
Bees and the Ancient Mysteries by Iwer Thor Lorenzen dives into the deep, symbolic connections between bees and ancient spiritual traditions. From mythology to sacred rituals, this book explores how civilizations have revered bees as messengers of wisdom and transformation. It’s a fascinating mix of history, mysticism, and beekeeping lore. If you’re drawn to the deeper, almost mystical side of our relationship with bees, this book is a thought-provoking read.
Honeybee Democracy by Thomas D. Seeley is a deep dive into how swarms make collective decisions—smarter and more efficiently than most human committees. Seeley unpacks the science behind how bees debate, scout new homes, and reach consensus without a central leader. It’s a fascinating look at nature’s built-in wisdom, with takeaways that apply far beyond the hive. If you’re into bees, biology, or just how groups can actually function well, this book is a must-read.
Keeping Bees in Horizontal Hives by Georges de Layens is a practical guide to beekeeping with less hassle and more bee-friendly methods. Layens makes a strong case for horizontal hives—simpler management, healthier colonies, and no heavy lifting. This book blends old wisdom with modern insights, offering a sustainable, low-intervention approach. If you’re looking for a beekeeping method that works with the bees rather than against them, this is a must-read.
Storey's Guide to Keeping Honey Bees by Malcolm T. Sanford and Richard E. Bonney is a solid, no-nonsense resource for beginner and intermediate beekeepers. It covers everything from hive setup to colony health and honey harvesting, with a practical, step-by-step approach. While it leans toward conventional methods, it’s a great foundation for anyone looking to start or improve their beekeeping skills. A reliable go-to guide for getting bees buzzing and keeping them thriving.
How to Keep Bees and Sell Honey by Walter T. Kelley is a classic, no-frills guide to practical beekeeping and turning honey into a business. Kelley, a legend in the beekeeping world, lays out straightforward advice on hive management, honey production, and marketing. It’s an old-school, get-your-hands-dirty kind of book—perfect for those who want to keep bees, harvest honey, and actually make some money doing it. A solid resource for both beginners and seasoned beekeepers.