Piping Hot Bees with Dr. Thomas D. Seeley (S6, E42)

(#271) In this enlightening episode of the Beekeeping Today Podcast, hosts Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Dr. Thomas Seeley, a celebrated biologist and author, to discuss his latest book, "Piping Hot Bees & Boisterous Buzz Runners: 20 Mysteries of Honey Bees Solved." Dr. Seeley shares his deep fascination with the individual behaviors of worker bees and how their collective actions contribute to the colony’s success. The conversation delves into the intricate world of bee communication, particularly during the swarming process, revealing how scout bees signal to their counterparts to prepare for the journey to a new home. This discussion also touches on the decision-making process within the swarm, showcasing bees' remarkable consensus-building capabilities.

Listeners will be captivated as Dr. Seeley explains the critical factors bees consider when selecting a new nest site, such as entrance height and cavity size, emphasizing bees' preference for sunny, south-facing entrances. The episode also explores the sophisticated communication methods bees use, including the iconic waggle dance, through which bees share vital information about food sources, water, and nesting sites.

Dr. Seeley's passion for his subject shines through as he recounts personal stories from his research, making complex scientific concepts accessible to beekeepers and enthusiasts alike. This episode is not only a deep dive into the behavioral mysteries of honeybees but also a testament to the collaborative nature of scientific discovery. Whether you're a seasoned beekeeper or a newcomer to the world of bees, this episode and Dr. Seeley’s new book "Piping Hot Bees & Boisterous Buzz Runners: 20 Mysteries of Honey Bees Solved" promises to enrich your understanding of these fascinating creatures and their complex societies.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Piping Hot Bees & Boisterous Buzz Runners on Amazon: https://a.co/d/4CFuGJl
• All of Tom's books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Thomas-D.-Seeley/author/B001HPUI6S

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

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Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

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We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

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