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Butterfly Pavilion will be closing at 2:00 p.m. this Sunday, 3/8 for a private event. Last entry will be at 12:30. Sorry for any inconvenience.

Beekeeping 101

Beekeeping 101: An Introduction to Honey Bees and Beekeeping 

Description:

This introductory course provides a foundational understanding of honey bee biology, beekeeping practices, and pollinator conservation. Participants will learn how honey bee colonies function, why bees are important to ecosystems and food systems, and what responsible beekeeping looks like in practice. The class combines an engaging classroom lecture with a guided, hands-on experience in a live apiary. 

By the end of this course, participants will: 

  • Understand basic honey bee biology and colony structure 
  • Learn the history and purpose of beekeeping 
  • Recognize the role of honey bees in pollination 
  • Become familiar with hive components and beekeeping equipment 
  • Safely observe and assess a live honeybee colony 

2026 Time and Dates:  

Saturday, May 9,  from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
OR
Saturday, June 20 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
 

Schedule: 

Classroom Session: (2.5 hours) 

  • Introduction to Beekeeping
  • Honey Bee Biology
  • Beekeeping History
  • Pollination and Ecosystems
  • Bee Conservation & Ethics
  • Fun Facts & Discussion
  • Q&A and preparation for the apiary visit

Hands On Apiary Experience: (1.5 hours) 

  1. Beekeeping Gear Overview 
  2. Opening a Hive 
  3. Hive Welfare Check 
  4. Bee Identification & Observation 
  5. Wrap-Up 
Meet Your Instructor: 

Francisco Garcia Bulle Bueno, Director of Research and Conservation

 

Learn more about Francisco HERE!

Fee: 

Member: $68
Non-member: $75