North Carolina Bee School Practice Exam

Using a smoker and ensuring minimal disruption is the best practice for harvesting honey from a hive because it helps to calm the bees and reduces the likelihood of aggressive behavior. The smoke masks alarm pheromones released by bees, making them less likely to feel threatened and more likely to remain docile during the harvesting process. This approach ensures the safety of both the beekeeper and the bees, allowing for a more efficient and stress-free honey extraction.

Additionally, minimal disruption to the hive is important to maintain the overall health and stability of the bee colony. By carefully managing the harvesting process, the beekeeper can avoid stressing the bees and ensure that some honey is left for the bees' own needs, especially for winter storage. This practice supports sustainable beekeeping and promotes the well-being of the hive.

Options such as harvesting all frames at once or only from the outside frames do not prioritize the bees' comfort or the stability of the colony. Harvesting during rain could disturb the bees and potentially lead to adverse effects, as wet conditions may increase the bees' agitation. Therefore, using a smoker and ensuring minimal disruption is the most effective and considerate approach to honey harvesting.