Bees 101
The Colony Roles
A honey bee hive is a family with three specialized roles. The Queen is the mother of all bees, laying thousands of eggs daily. Workers are all female; they clean, build wax combs, and forage for nectar. Drones are the only male bees, whose job is to mate with other queens. Together, they function as a single unit supporting our local ecosystem.
From Egg to Adult
The lifecycle of a bee has four stages: Egg, Larva, Pupa, and Adult. After hatching, the larva is fed royal jelly and pollen, eventually spinning a cocoon in a capped cell to pupate. A queen can lead her colony for 2 to 5 years, while the hardworking female bees typically live for about 6 weeks during the summer months, dedicating their lives to the hive.
About the Hive
Step inside the heart of the colony. A honey bee hive is more than just a box; it is a living, breathing masterpiece of natural engineering and constant cooperation.
The Architecture
Modern hives use stacked 'supers' and wooden frames. Bees build precise wax hexagons on these frames, creating the perfect storage for their entire world.
Life Within the Comb
The bottom box houses the brood nest (nursery). Above it, bees store 'bee bread' (pollen) for protein and golden honey for energy, all meticulously organized.
Healthy Hives, Green Gardens
A thriving hive is a win for Vancouver. By pollinating our backyard gardens and parks, these bees ensure our city remains lush and blooming for everyone.
The Working Apiary
Protective Gear & Tools
Safety and precision are essential in the apiary. Molly utilizes full protective suits, smokers to calmly signal the bees, and steel hive tools to gently inspect frames without disrupting the colony's work.
Hive Setup & Gear
The apiary features organized hive boxes and frames where bees build their colony. Each setup includes specialized feeders and bottom boards designed to provide a safe, productive functional home for the bees.
Gentle Hive Methods
We prioritize the bees' comfort through peaceful, bee-safe inspection techniques. By moving slowly and checking hive care with minimal disruption, Molly ensures every colony remains healthy, calm, and thriving.
Talk to Us Today
We love meeting neighbours who care about bees. If you want to host a hive, ask a question, or just learn more about honey bees in Vancouver, we are here to help you out.
Email: mollysapiary@gmail.com
Call: (604) 454-4284