Why do you keep a box full of bugs that you just know will sting? It should be an easy answer, but there's more here that you might think, especially if you're just getting started. Even if you've been doing this for years and you're doing everything right, someday, you will get stung, no matter what.

But what about the beekeeper dressed in only shorts and a T-Shirt, who will take a colony apart, remove the queen, put it back together, and walk away with a smile – and no stings. You have to admire that skill or is it luck?

Basic advice – always wear a veil, always. If you're going to be opening and moving things, wear at least a veil and a jacket. If you're going to be moving bees in the middle of the night or harvesting honey, wear a full suit with gloves and elastic around your cuffs and wrists.

Even more basic advice – Respect stings, wear protective gear, take care of the people around you to reduce chances they will get stung, but just know, it's going to happen. It's all in a day's work.

Listen to Kim & Jim today as they discuss this most basic and most painful aspect of beekeeping!

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This episode of Honey Bee Obscura is supported by the three generations of beekeepers at Leibengood Family Apiaries, providing Georgia certified, southern raised bee packages and queens to central Ohio each Spring!

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We welcome Betterbee as sponsor of today's episode. 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

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Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast.

Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus, original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott

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