Getting Kitted out for Bee Keeping

[Janet Luke]

I love bee keeping, it is the only time in my life I have been a size 6!

Being new to bee keeping I have gone for the full zipped hood bee suit. Some may think it is overkill, but I really dont like stings. This suit is like a white cotton boiler suit with an attached zipped hood. It has elastic at the ankles and wrists to keep any wondering bees out. I bought it through Arataki Honey, which is just down the road from me. Bee keeping is obviously experiencing a surge in popularity as I had to wait 4 weeks for the arrival of my suit.

Along with the suit you need gloves of some discription. Washing up gloves will surfice but long sleave leather gloves are the "rolls royce'' choice. Gumboots with thick socks are the last fashion accessory for any discerning bee keeper.

If you have ever wondered why bee suits are white, it is because it is a calming colour for bees. Blue does the opposite, it can make them aggressive, so forego the Levi's when you are with your bees.

[Marcia Ann Meehan]

I must send you a photo of me in all the gear and wearing jandles cause I get hot feet !! Haven`t had any stings in that region yet, I guess the time will come ! I have a full suit but am going to invest in a singlet affair ( very flattering - not ) with a zipped hood attached, you wear it over your clothes and is alot lighter in weight.