What is the art of beekeeping called?

Beekeeping is the science or art of managing bees. It falls under animal husbandry and serves various purposes, such as producing honey, propolis, royal jelly, pollen, wax, and even venom. In some countries, beekeeping is also part of landscape design. However, in colder climates like Russia, beekeepers face unique challenges, such as protecting hives from freezing temperatures and ensuring bees have enough food during winter.

The history of beekeeping spans thousands of years. Archaeological findings suggest that bees existed 42 million years ago. Ancient civilizations, like the Sumerians, used honey in rituals and daily life. People began domesticating wild bees by creating artificial hives from hollow tree trunks, wooden boxes, ceramic vessels, and woven baskets.

In the Middle East, traces of beeswax have been found in pottery dating back to around 7000 BCE. This indicates that beekeeping has ancient roots and continues to evolve, playing a crucial role in agriculture and ecology today.