By the end of the course, you will have an understanding of wider themes that relate to bees, hives, beekeeping and trees, and how to observe honeybees in the wild.
Throughout the week we will look at issues, themes and information that give depth to our understanding. How can we provide for bees in our own garden? What books could I read? What is the 'pollinator debate'? What other bees are there in the UK? Are honey bees domesticated, or wild? How might we reevaluate conventional beekeeping? What etiquette might we practice, when observing and being close to bees?
How our week will unfold
Our week will start with an introduction to bees. We look at how they live, and how beekeeping has evolved into what is practiced today.
On Tuesday we learn about ancient trees, and about how bees live in the wild, in tree cavities.
Wednesday is a day when we go to the forest, learning how to observe trees from a bee's perspective. We talk about how to look, how to walk quietly, and ways in which we can make meaningful observations about wild bees and their nests.
On Thursday we look at wider contexts to bees, beekeeping and ancient trees, considering bees and trees from varying viewpoints. We look at alternatives to the modern beehive, where to go next and what resources are available, should you want to take things further.
On Friday we conclude our week with another excursion. We visit a workshop where log hives are made, and we'll go to see a bee tree occupied by wild honeybees.
What to bring:
- a notepad and pen/pencil
- suitable footwear and clothing for walking in the forest (Wednesday)
- binoculars, if you have them
