Beekeepers use smoke to manage and calm bees during hive inspections, ensuring their safety and minimizing bee aggression. The smoke masks the alarm pheromone, isopentyl acetate, which bees release when they sense danger. This prevents the bees from becoming defensive or aggressive. The smoke is typically generated using a bee smoker, a tool that has evolved from early clay pots to modern devices. Various fuels, such as burlap, pine needles, cardboard, and even commercial products, are used to produce the smoke. The timing and amount of smoke used depend on the bees' behavior and the specific tasks being performed.

Key Points Explained:

1. Purpose of Smoke in Beekeeping:

   • Smoke is primarily used to calm bees during hive inspections. When bees sense danger, they release an alarm pheromone called isopentyl acetate, which signals other bees to prepare for defense. Smoke masks this pheromone, reducing the bees' aggressive response and allowing beekeepers to work safely.

2. How Smoke Affects Bees:

   • Some beekeepers believe that smoke doesn't necessarily calm bees but rather confuses them or causes them to temporarily retreat. This confusion reduces frenetic activity, making it easier for the beekeeper to handle the hive.

3. When to Use Smoke:

   • Beekeepers decide to use smoke based on the bees' behavior. If the bees are calm, smoke may not be necessary. However, if the bees become defensive or aggressive, such as when they swarm out of the hive, smoke is essential. It is also recommended during extensive hive manipulations, like removing honey frames.

4. Historical Use of Bee Smokers:

   • Early beekeepers used clay bee smokers, where fuel inside the pot was ignited, and the beekeeper would blow smoke toward the colony entrance. This practice is depicted in ancient cave paintings, showing the long history of using smoke in beekeeping.

5. Types of Fuel for Bee Smokers:

   • A variety of fuels can be used in a bee smoker, including Hessian fabric (burlap), pine needles, corrugated cardboard, paper egg cartons, and rotten wood or herbs. Some beekeeping supply sources also sell commercial fuels like pulped paper and compressed cotton. The choice of fuel often depends on availability and personal preference.

6. Concentration and Application of Smoke:

   • The concentration of smoke can vary depending on the type of fuel, the smoker, and the beekeeper's preference. Some beekeepers start with a concentration of two tablespoons (one ounce) of liquid smoke for every 16 ounces of water, but experimentation is often necessary to find the ideal mix.

By understanding these key points, beekeepers can effectively use smoke to manage their hives, ensuring both their safety and the well-being of their bees.

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