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- Perichon, Samuel, et al.
(author)
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Advice on how to start beekeeping, memories with bees and the uses of honey : results of an online questionnaire with European beekeepers
- 2024
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In: Journal of Apicultural Research. - : Taylor & Francis Group. - 0021-8839 .- 2078-6913. ; , s. 1-16
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Beekeeping is a demanding activity that requires both particular human qualities from those who practise it and an environment that is favourable to bees. This is why the interviewed beekeepers advise to take time to think before starting to keep the bees, to find a mentor, and to always have the desire to get to know the bees even if this is not enough for success. In Northern and Western Europe, beekeepers consider patience and calmness as essential qualities to be a “good beekeeper”, while in Southern Europe, passion for bees is the main driver of success. The reasons for abandonment or failure also include human and environmental factors. To better understand the relationship between beekeepers and their bees, interviewees were encouraged to share their best memories. With years of experience, contemplative memories fade into memorable situations in which bee practices are described, and then in turn, they fade into moments of sociability. Honey harvesting plays an important role. Productive considerations are more expressed in Southern Europe, where it is an exceptional harvest that marks on people’s minds, more than the first honey harvest. The strong connection to their bees and the territory they live in is also expressed in the choice of their favourite honey. Many beekeepers mentioned the local honey production, which they are proud to produce with their own bees, even though they sometimes became criticized for a too high price for this local product.
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| 2. |
- Perichon, Samuel, et al.
(author)
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Perception of threats to bee colonies and the future of local beekeeping by beekeepers in various European countries : [Perception des menaces pour les colonies d’abeilles et futur de l’apiculture locale envisagé par des apiculteurs dans différents pays d’Europe]
- 2024
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In: Bulletin de la Société Géographique de Liège. - : Geographical Society of Liège. - 0770-7576 .- 2507-0711. ; 82, s. 19-46
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In Europe, the honey bee (Apis mellifera) has been confronted by multiple threats often linked to human activities. An online survey was spread between September 2021 and March 2022 among 2,111 beekeepers. The results showed that beekeepers are powerless to deal with threats. They believe that man-made problems can be mitigated or eliminated through authorities. Bee colonies suffer under parasites, predators or declining natural resources. In Southern Europe, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep bees. The situation is in contrast to that described for Northern Europe, especially Iceland, where threats are almost non-existent. This North/South duality is also evident when describe future perspectives in their region. The uncertainty of production can lead to a negative outlook for certain people, especially because selling honey is a motivation, but others have a positive outlook for the future.
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