Beekeeping may have independently evolved around the world in different societies and cultures, possibly beginning by accident when a hive was set up in a jar or basket. Beekeeping allows for the harvesting of honey without harming the bees or taking their food supply.
The composition of honey includes a mixture of bee enzymes, flower nectar, and pollen which are dehydrated to form new compounds. Honey can be made from honeydew in some cases, but the types of honeydew honey available are limited and uncommon.
This podcast discusses the creation of honeycombs and how beekeepers make fully-formed combs for bees, which raises the question of whether it's possible for bees to become soft and lazy as a result.
Backyard beekeepers are providing honey that not only tastes great, but can also help prevent allergies by introducing small amounts of local pollen. Buying local honey is worth it, especially if it is produced within close proximity to one's residence.
Learn how to prevent swarming in a bee colony by trading bees with friends and inspecting the brood chamber for signs of queen cells.