Nature Season 2 Episode 8 Big Business in Bees

In the season 2 episode 8 of Nature titled "Big Business in Bees," the episode explores the complicated and ever-changing world of bees and the impact they have on the business industry. Bees are vital to our ecosystem and provide value to the agricultural industry, but as the episode reveals, they are also a significant source of income and are critical to the honey industry.

The episode introduces viewers to a varietal of beekeepers from across the United States, from small mom and pop operations to large commercial outfits with thousands of hives. It is clear from the early moments of the episode that bees are required for more than just honey, as they are used for agriculture and pollinating a wide variety of crops.

As viewers witness the lifecycle of bees in action, it becomes apparent that there is more happening in the world of bees than just honey production. The episode delves into the many different factors affecting bee populations, including pesticides, disease, and the loss of natural habitats. The challenges facing the bee industry are daunting, and each beekeeper faces their own unique challenges to keep their colonies thriving.

One beekeeper is shown using traditional methods, while another adopts new technologies, such as RFID tags that allow for tracking bees' movement between hives. It is evident that beekeeping is a challenging profession, and the level of skill and care required to keep colonies healthy is set to grow as bee populations decline.

The episode also examines the lucrative honey market, where companies are making big business in bees. Beekeepers work with buyers and brokers to sell their honey to stores and restaurants, and some have even started their own lines of honey-based products, from candles to skincare.

Despite the challenges, beekeepers are passionate about their craft and dedicated to helping bees thrive. Farmers are shown taking steps to protect pollinators by planting wildflowers and providing other food sources for bees. Beekeepers are researching ways to combat varroa mites, a parasite responsible for killing off colonies, and are working with universities and other groups to investigate the impact of pesticides on bees.

Overall, the episode highlights the importance of bees to our ecosystem and the numerous industries that rely on them. It underscores the critical role of beekeepers, who work tirelessly to protect these critical insects while also providing valuable products to businesses and consumers alike. "Big Business in Bees" is a fascinating look at the agricultural and commercial impact of bees and an essential watch for anyone interested in the complex world of insects.