January 2026 BIBBA Monthly
Potential Beekeepers and the Public
Guidance for Beekeeping Associations on Communication and Public Engagement By Roger Patterson Interest in bees and beekeeping has grown dramatically in the 21st century—fuelled partly by media stories and well-intentioned but often inaccurate messaging. While much of this publicity is outside the control of beekeepers, ignoring it is unwise. If beekeepers do not provide clear,…
Read MoreBIBBA guide to forming and running bee improvement groups
With contributions from Jo Widdicombe, Roger Patterson and Steve McGrath. The Bee Improvement and Bee Breeders Association (BIBBA) is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) No 1200969 founded in 1964 (originally called The Village Bee Breeders Association (VBBA)). BIBBA’s objects are … “…the conservation, restoration, study, selection, and improvement for the public benefit of the native…
Read MoreCuticular Hydrocarbon Profiles
The study shows that different subspecies of Apis mellifera carry genetically-determined variation in their cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles. These hydrocarbons — the waxy coating on a bee’s body — are vital for preventing desiccation and also act as chemical cues for nestmate recognition and potentially communication within the colony.
Read MoreDecember: Ending the year where we started it, or better
Discover top winter beekeeping tips, varroa management strategies, and insights into mite resistance for healthy, thriving colonies in the UK.
Read MoreBeginners or Introductory Courses
Discover how quality beginner beekeeping courses can build strong foundations, ensure accurate knowledge, and inspire confidence for future beekeepers.
Read MoreIndoor Teaching
Discover effective indoor beekeeping sessions, from beginner skills to specialist topics, designed to enhance knowledge and engagement for all BKA members.
Read MorePotential Beekeepers and the Public
Guidance for Beekeeping Associations on Communication and Public EngagementBy Roger Patterson Interest in bees and beekeeping has grown dramatically in the 21st century—fuelled partly by media stories and well-intentioned but often inaccurate messaging. While much of this publicity is outside the control of beekeepers, ignoring it is unwise. If beekeepers do not provide clear, authoritative…
Read MoreToolkit-3
Potential Beekeepers and the Public Guidance for Beekeeping Associations on Communication and Public EngagementBy Roger Patterson Interest in bees and beekeeping has grown dramatically in the 21st century—fuelled partly by media stories and well-intentioned but often inaccurate messaging. While much of this publicity is outside the control of beekeepers, ignoring it is unwise. If beekeepers…
Read MoreToolkit-Potential beekeepers and the public
Possibly fuelled by media activity, there has been great interest in bees and beekeeping in the 21st century, although in some respects it may not be in the best interests of the craft, but perhaps unwise to ignore it without response. Some of the publicity suggests that bees are in trouble and all you have…
Read More
