The Poor Prole’s Almanac

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac," challenges the conventional understanding of drone bees, moving beyond the stereotype of them as lazy, unproductive members of the hive. The hosts, Andy and Elliot, engage in their signature comedic banter while exploring the multifaceted roles of drones and highlighting their crucial importance to honeybee health and genetic diversity. Beyond the Stereotype: Unveiling the Importance of Drones The hosts begin by acknowledging the common perception of drones as the "deadbeat dads" of the bee world, emphasizing that they don't participate in pollen collection, hive defense, or honey production. However, they quickly shift the conversation to reveal the often-overlooked contributions of drones. Indicators of Hive Health: Drones can serve as valuable "canaries in the coal mine," signaling potential problems within the hive. The presence of numerous drones flying around in the fall or dead drones outside the hive can indicate food shortages and impending hive collapse. Genetic Diversity: Drones play a critical role in maintaining genetic diversity within honeybee populations. As the sole carriers of the queen's genetic code, their successful mating with queens from other hives ensures the spread of healthy genes and the long-term viability of the species. Heat Regulation: Drones contribute to regulating the hive's temperature, particularly during the winter months. Their larger size and fluffier bodies help create a "blanket" over the brood, providing insulation and warmth. The Drone Congregation Area: A Mile-High Club for Bees The hosts provide a humorous explanation of the drone congregation area (DCA), a unique aerial gathering place where male honeybees congregate to mate with young queens. This phenomenon, compared to a "bee orgy" and likened to the "mile-high club," highlights the crucial role drones play in the continuation of honeybee generations. Drone Drift and Landscape Features: The episode touches on the concept of "drone drift," a term used to describe the movement of drones from one hive to another. While acknowledging that the science behind drone drift is not fully understood, they suggest that landscape features, such as edges of forests or openings in fields, influence drone congregation patterns. Varroa Mites: Exploiting Drone Brood as a Natural Trap The hosts discuss the problem of varroa destructor mites, a significant threat to honeybee health. They introduce a novel approach to mite control, using drone brood as bait to trap and remove mites without relying on chemical treatments. This method involves strategically placing frames without comb on the edges of hive boxes, attracting drones to build their larger cells in these areas. Since varroa mites prefer to infest drone brood, these frames effectively act as "mite traps." By regularly inspecting and removing the infested frames, beekeepers can significantly reduce mite populations without resorting to potentially harmful chemicals. Royal Jelly and the Importance of Drone Nutrition The conversation shifts to the importance of nutrition, particularly royal jelly, in drone development. They explain that drones are initially fed royal jelly for the first three days of their lives, and the quality of this substance directly impacts their size, sperm production, and overall fitness. The hosts highlight a recent discovery that pesticide exposure, even at low levels, can negatively affect the quality and quantity of royal jelly produced by nurse bees, leading to smaller, weaker drones with reduced fertility. Pesticide Impacts: The Hidden Threat to Drone Health The hosts express concern about the widespread use of pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, and their detrimental effects on honeybee health. They cite research indicating that pesticide exposure can: Reduce the size and function of the hypopharyngeal gland (HP gland) in nurse bees, responsible for producing royal and worker jelly. Lead to smaller drones with reduced sperm volume and quality due to the consumption of inferior jelly. Alter drone development, even when fed royal jelly, resulting in smaller sex organs and delayed maturation. A Call for Awareness and a Holistic Approach The episode concludes with a call for greater awareness and respect for drone bees, acknowledging that their role in honeybee health and genetic diversity is far more significant than previously recognized. The hosts advocate for a holistic approach to beekeeping, emphasizing the importance of: Reducing pesticide use and promoting sustainable alternatives. Providing bees with diverse and nutritious forage to support healthy drone development. Continuing research on drone biology and the factors affecting their health and reproductive success. The episode underscores the interconnectedness of all members of the honeybee hive, highlighting the critical role that drones play in ensuring the long-term survival of these vital pollinators. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of The Poor Proles Almanac centers on the varroa destructor, a parasitic mite that poses a significant threat to honeybee populations worldwide. The hosts discuss the history of the varroa mite, its devastating impact on honeybee colonies, and explore various approaches to managing this persistent pest. The Varroa Mite: A Global Threat to Honeybees The varroa mite, described as a "tiny mite that is basically like a tick for bees", was first discovered in Asia in 1904, parasitizing the Asian honeybee (Apis cerana). Through the movement of Western honeybee (Apis mellifera) colonies, the mite spread to Africa and Europe in the mid-20th century and eventually reached the United States in 1987. Since then, it has rapidly spread across the globe, devastating honeybee populations and posing a serious challenge to beekeepers and the agricultural industry. The Destructive Impact of Varroa Mites Unlike Asian honeybees, which have co-evolved with the varroa mite and developed mechanisms to control its population, European honeybees, the primary species used in commercial beekeeping, lack natural defenses against this parasite. The mites primarily target developing brood (larvae and pupae) in the hive, feeding on their hemolymph (bee "blood") and transmitting harmful viruses. This infestation weakens the bees, leading to malformations, reduced lifespan, impaired flight performance, and ultimately, colony collapse. Chemical Treatments: A Short-Term Solution with Long-Term Consequences Initially, beekeepers relied heavily on insecticides, particularly pyrethroids, to control varroa mite infestations. However, the mites quickly developed resistance to these chemicals, leading to a cycle of new treatments and subsequent resistance. The widespread use of chemical treatments also raises concerns about potential negative impacts on bee health, honey contamination, and the environment. Exploring Alternative Management Strategies Recognizing the limitations and potential downsides of chemical treatments, the hosts discuss alternative approaches to varroa mite management, highlighting the need for sustainable and long-term solutions. Plant Extracts: The episode explores the use of plant extracts, such as garlic, as a natural method for varroa control. While some extracts have shown promising results in laboratory settings, their efficacy in real-world hive conditions and potential impacts on developing bees require further investigation. Breeding Resistant Bees: The hosts showcase successful examples of varroa-resistant honeybee populations, particularly in Cuba, where bees have naturally developed mechanisms to coexist with the mites without significant colony losses. This example highlights the potential for selective breeding programs to enhance natural resistance traits in honeybee populations. Drone Brood Removal: Drawing on a previous episode about drones, the hosts mention the practice of removing drone brood comb from hives as a method for reducing varroa mite populations. Since varroa mites prefer to reproduce in drone brood, strategically removing infested combs can help control mite levels while allowing the bees to develop some tolerance. Slowing Down Mite Reproduction: Research has shown that slowing down varroa mite reproduction within the hive can give bees more time to adapt and develop natural defense mechanisms. This approach focuses on reducing mite pressure rather than complete eradication, allowing for a more balanced co-existence between bees and mites. RNA Interference: The episode touches on the use of RNA interference technology, a cutting-edge approach that targets the genetic mechanisms of varroa mite reproduction, potentially disrupting their ability to reproduce and spread. While this technology holds promise, concerns remain about its potential long-term ecological impacts and the ethical implications of genetically manipulating honeybees. The Need for a Holistic Approach: Rethinking Beekeeping Practices The hosts emphasize that effectively addressing the varroa mite challenge requires a holistic approach that goes beyond simply finding a "silver bullet" solution. They advocate for a shift in beekeeping practices, moving away from heavy reliance on chemical treatments and embracing strategies that promote natural bee defenses and ecological balance. Reducing Transportation Stress: The practice of migratory beekeeping, where hives are transported long distances for pollination services, has been implicated in spreading varroa mites and other diseases. The hosts suggest reducing the stress associated with transportation to improve bee health and resilience. Improving Bee Nutrition: The importance of providing bees with a diverse and nutritious diet is highlighted, with the hosts cautioning against over-reliance on sugar water as a primary food source. Ensuring access to natural forage and supplementing with high-quality pollen substitutes can enhance bee health and immune function. Learning from Wild Bees: Studying the behavior and adaptations of wild honeybee populations, which have often developed natural resistance to varroa mites and other threats, can provide valuable insights for improving beekeeping practices. By observing how bees thrive in natural environments, beekeepers can adopt more sustainable and bee-centric approaches. The Future of Honeybees: Embracing a Balanced Coexistence The episode concludes with a message of hope, suggesting that a balanced co-existence between honeybees and varroa mites is possible through a combination of responsible beekeeping practices, selective breeding, and a deeper understanding of the complex ecological dynamics at play. The hosts emphasize that by working with nature, rather than against it, we can ensure the health and resilience of honeybee populations for generations to come. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac," titled "Episode 141 #6: Honeybee Queens & the future of Breeding," centers on a concerning trend: the declining health and longevity of honeybee queens. The hosts, joined by their resident queen expert Andy, discuss the traditional life cycle of a queen, how this has drastically changed in recent decades, and explore potential contributing factors to this worrisome development. The Traditional Queen Lifecycle: Longevity and Supersedure Traditionally, a honeybee queen lives for 3 to 6 years before being superseded, a natural process where the hive replaces an aging or underperforming queen. During this time, multiple swarms may emerge from the hive, splitting the colony and allowing for the establishment of new hives. As queens age, they typically experience a decline in their egg-laying capacity, particularly towards the end of summer. When a queen fails, meaning she can no longer lay the proper ratio of worker bees, the worker bees will often force her out of the hive. The Modern Queen: Shorter Lifespans and Mysterious Disappearances However, as the hosts emphasize, the current reality for honeybee queens is a stark departure from this traditional lifecycle. Queens are now rarely surviving beyond two years, and their decline is happening throughout the year, not just in late summer. Furthermore, they are being superseded at unusual times and, in some cases, disappearing entirely without a trace. Unraveling the Mystery: Exploring Potential Causes The hosts grapple with this concerning phenomenon, acknowledging that there is no definitive answer to explain this widespread decline in queen health. They challenge the mainstream explanations, which often attribute these issues to aggressive bees, bad weather, and queens getting lost. They point out that these factors have always been present and do not adequately explain the sudden and dramatic shift in queen health. Chemical Treatments: A Significant Impact on Reproductive Capacity The hosts focus on the potential impact of chemical treatments used in beekeeping to control mites, suggesting that these chemicals may be a significant contributing factor to the decline in queen health. They cite a 2016 study that showed a dramatic decrease in drone sperm viability after exposure to chemical treatments. They also note that similar negative impacts on sperm viability have been observed in queens exposed to these chemicals. Transportation Stress and its Impact on Sperm Viability Beyond chemical exposure, the hosts discuss how the transportation process itself can negatively affect queen health. Queens are often shipped long distances in conditions that are either too warm or too cold, which can lead to reduced sperm viability and compromise the queen's ability to establish a healthy hive. The Importance of Diet: Beyond Sugar Water The hosts delve into the critical role of diet in honeybee health, emphasizing that while a diverse diet is essential, many beekeepers rely heavily on sugar water, particularly during times when natural food sources are scarce. This practice, while intended to sustain the hive, lacks the nutritional complexity of honey and pollen, potentially impacting the queen's health and longevity. A Confluence of Factors: A Recipe for Decline The episode highlights that the declining health of honeybee queens is likely not attributable to a single factor but rather a combination of stressors. The hosts underscore that the very practices employed to support honeybees, such as chemical treatments, long-distance transportation, and reliance on sugar water, may be inadvertently contributing to their decline. Breeding Practices and the Quest for Healthy Queens The hosts explore the role of breeding practices in addressing the queen health crisis. They discuss the importance of factors like genetics, the age of worker bees involved in raising new queens, and the size of the queen cells. They also mention the work of researchers like Torben Schiffer, who focuses on studying wild honeybee populations to gain insights into natural breeding patterns and the potential for improving queen health. Local Queens and Natural Adaptation: A Path Forward The episode concludes with a call for a more sustainable approach to beekeeping, one that prioritizes the use of local queens adapted to specific environments and minimizes the reliance on interventions that may have unintended consequences. The hosts advocate for allowing bees to adapt naturally and suggest that reducing human intervention may be key to ensuring the long-term survival of healthy honeybee populations. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" explores the fascinating world of honeybee genetics, emphasizing the crucial role of genetic diversity in colony health and survival. The episode traces the historical migration and evolution of honeybees, examines the unique reproductive processes that contribute to genetic variation, and discusses the implications of beekeeping practices on bee genetics. The Journey of Honeybees: Adaptation and Evolution Through Migration The episode begins by taking a journey back to the last Ice Age, explaining that honeybees, unable to survive the frigid temperatures, migrated south. As the ice receded, different subspecies of honeybees emerged, adapted to their specific environments. The episode highlights the Iberian honeybee, which, due to the relatively flat terrain of the Iberian Peninsula, was able to quickly recolonize Northern Europe. These bees crossbred with other non-honeybees in the region, contributing to the genetic diversity of European honeybees. The Importance of Swarming and Natural Selection The hosts discuss the significance of swarming, a natural process where a portion of the hive, including the queen, leaves to establish a new colony. They explain that in the past, when beekeeping was not widespread, only the strongest and most adaptable colonies survived to swarm and reproduce. This natural selection process ensured the perpetuation of robust honeybee populations. The Queen's Role: Diploids and Haploids The episode explains the unique reproductive system of honeybees, where queens are diploids, carrying chromosomes from both their mother and father (a drone), while drones are haploids, carrying only one set of chromosomes from their mother. The hosts clarify that this means drones are essentially the queen's genetic brothers. Meiosis: Mixing and Reducing Chromosomes The process of meiosis is introduced, which is how the queen's diploid genetic code is mixed and reduced to create haploid drone eggs. This process involves a random exchange of genetic material between the queen's two sets of chromosomes, ensuring genetic variation in the drones she produces. Competitive Polyandry: Mating with Multiple Drones The hosts explain the concept of competitive polyandry, where queen bees mate with multiple drones in mid-air. This mating process further contributes to genetic diversity within the hive, as each drone's sperm carries a unique set of genes. The queen stores the sperm from all the drones she mates with and uses it throughout her life to fertilize eggs. Subfamilies Within the Hive: Diversity in Appearance and Behavior The multiple matings result in subfamilies within the hive, each with slightly different genetic makeups. This genetic variation manifests in differences in appearance, behavior, and skill sets among the worker bees. The episode uses the example of the waggle dance, the bees' communication method for sharing the location of food sources, explaining that subfamilies may interpret the dance differently due to their unique genetics. The Importance of Genetic Diversity for Colony Health The episode stresses that this genetic diversity, although seemingly creating challenges, is crucial for the overall health and resilience of the colony. The hosts explain that genetic variation: Provides a range of skill sets: Different subfamilies excel in different tasks, such as hygiene, foraging, and brood rearing, contributing to the efficiency of the hive. Enhances resistance to diseases and parasites: Hives with greater genetic diversity are better equipped to withstand threats like viruses and parasites. Inbreeding: A Threat to Hive Survival The episode discusses the dangers of inbreeding, explaining that when queens mate with their brothers (drones), it can lead to the production of diploid drones. These diploid drones are not viable and are typically cannibalized by worker bees. Continued inbreeding can result in a "shotgun effect," where a significant portion of the brood is comprised of these non-viable diploid drones, ultimately leading to the collapse of the hive. The Impact of Beekeeping Practices on Genetic Diversity The hosts shift the focus to the implications of modern beekeeping practices on honeybee genetics. They point out that: Keeping inbred hives alive artificially can be detrimental: Beekeepers, through various interventions, may inadvertently sustain hives that would have naturally collapsed due to inbreeding, potentially weakening the overall gene pool. Importing bees from different regions can disrupt local adaptations: The practice of ordering bees from distant locations, often with different climates and environmental conditions, can disrupt the development of locally adapted ecotypes. The Concept of Ecotypes: Regional Adaptations The episode introduces the concept of ecotypes, regionally adapted honeybee populations with specific traits that allow them to thrive in their particular environments. The hosts explain that these ecotypes have evolved over time through natural selection, but modern beekeeping practices can hinder their development. Outbreeding Depression: The Risks of Introducing Foreign Genetics The episode discusses the phenomenon of outbreeding depression, which occurs when introducing foreign genetics disrupts the specialized adaptations of a local population. This can lead to reduced efficiency and fitness within the hive. A Call to Let Bees Adapt Naturally The episode concludes on a somewhat optimistic note, highlighting the resilience of honeybees. They mention examples of landrace honeybees, like those in the UK, that have survived despite challenges and have even influenced the genetics of imported bees, demonstrating their ability to adapt and thrive. The hosts advocate for allowing bees to adapt naturally, suggesting that reducing human intervention in beekeeping practices may be key to ensuring the long-term survival of healthy honeybee populations. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" expands upon the previous episode's exploration of honeybee biology, focusing on the intricate division of labor within the hive, the different stages of a worker bee's life, and the various types of hives used in beekeeping. The episode continues the hosts' engaging blend of humor and insightful commentary, featuring Andy, Elliot, and their guest host, Matt. Worker Bees: A Life of Stratified Labor The episode begins by emphasizing the structured division of labor among worker bees, highlighting the three main roles they assume throughout their lives: nurse bees, house bees, and foragers. This stratification of work aligns with the bees' age, abilities, and the hive's needs. Nurse Bees: The Nurturers - Nurse bees, the youngest worker bees, are responsible for feeding other worker bees as they emerge from their cells. Their primary task involves feeding royal jelly, a nutrient-rich secretion from glands in their heads, to newly hatched larvae. House Bees: The Builders and Processors - As nurse bees mature, their brood food glands dry up, and wax glands on their abdomen become active, marking their transition into house bees. House bees focus on building and repairing the honeycomb, processing pollen into bee bread, and stretching nectar to create honey. They also take orientation flights to familiarize themselves with the hive's location and surroundings. Foragers: The Gatherers - Around 21 days old, worker bees shift into the foraging role, their wax glands atrophying as they venture outside the hive to collect resources. Foragers gather water, pollen, nectar, and resins used to make propolis, a bee glue used to seal gaps and reinforce the hive structure. They continue in this role until they reach the end of their lifespan, around six weeks. The Significance of Propolis: Bee Glue with Multiple Uses The hosts discuss the importance of propolis, explaining that it's distinct from beeswax. While beeswax forms the honeycomb structure, propolis acts as a sealant, filling cracks and crevices within the hive to regulate airflow. The hosts compare it to mortar, highlighting its role in maintaining the hive's integrity. Reflecting on Bee Society: A Model for Equitable Mentorship? The hosts draw parallels between the stratified labor system in bee society and human societal structures. They observe that while bees transition through different roles based on their capabilities and experience, human societies often prioritize hierarchical advancement and financial gain. They propose that the beehive's system of mentorship, where younger bees learn by working alongside older bees in subsequent stages, could offer a model for creating a more equitable and compassionate human society. Hive Variations: Adapting to Location and Beekeeping Practices Shifting focus to the physical structures of beehives, the hosts discuss the variety of hive types available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages depending on location, climate, and the beekeeper's skill level. Langstroth Hives: The Standard Choice - The most common type, characterized by square stacked boxes. Top Bar Hives: The Southern Favorite - More prevalent in warmer climates, believed to dissipate heat more effectively and resemble natural hive structures. Skep Hives: The Historical Relic - Less than 1% of hives in use, typically made of straw and historically designed to be destroyed during honey harvesting. The hosts challenge the traditional narrative that this practice stemmed from ignorance, suggesting that beekeepers likely harvested after bees naturally moved out. Protective Gear: The Michelin Man of Beekeeping The hosts emphasize the importance of protective clothing for beekeepers, specifically a veil to protect the face and a bee suit to cover the body. While stings on the hands and body are tolerable, stings to the face are highly undesirable. The hosts humorously describe the bee suit's appearance, likening it to the Michelin Man. Hive Tools: Essential Equipment for Beekeeping The episode introduces the essential tools for beekeeping, focusing on three key items: Hive Tool: The Multipurpose Lever - Used for prying, scraping, and leveraging tasks within the hive, particularly for dislodging frames stuck together with propolis. Smoker: The Bee Calmer - Traditionally used to subdue bees by inducing them to gorge themselves on honey in anticipation of an emergency flight. The smoke also masks alarm pheromones, making the beekeeper less of a perceived threat. However, the hosts note that the practice can disrupt honey production, and they personally try to avoid using a smoker. Bee Brush: The Gentle Remover - Any clean brush can suffice, used to gently remove bees from frames or the beekeeper's body. The hosts advise brushing bees away from their heads. Acquiring Bees: Packages, Nukes, and Swarms The hosts discuss the different methods for obtaining bees, each offering its own set of considerations: Packages: The Mail-Order Option - Bees are collected from multiple hives and shipped in packages with a caged queen. The hosts express concern about the potential stress and disruption this method causes to the bees. Nukes: The Mini-Hive Start - Short for "nucleus colony," a nuke includes a few frames of workers, brood, honey, pollen, and a queen, essentially representing a small, established hive. More expensive than packages, but potentially a more stable start. Swarms: The Free and Natural Option - Capturing a swarm, a hanging cluster of bees seeking a new home, offers a cost-effective way to acquire a colony of related bees. The hosts highlight the vulnerability of swarms and the need to act quickly to capture them before they move on. Bee Strains: A Variety of Traits and Characteristics The episode introduces the concept of bee strains, highlighting the three major strains commonly found in the United States: Italians, Caucasians, and Carniolans (Carnies). Italian Bees: The Popular Choice - The most common strain, known for their light color, early brood rearing, and high honey production. However, they require more maintenance, exhibit weaker orientation, and are prone to robbing other hives. Caucasian Bees: The Gentle Giants - Known for their gentleness, dark color, and excessive use of propolis. Their propensity for propolis makes them less suitable for producing comb honey. They are also prone to robbing but less inclined to swarming. Carnolian Bees: The Rapid Growers - Characterized by their dark color and rapid spring buildup. Their main disadvantage is their tendency to swarm excessively. They are also known for their economical food consumption and good overwintering abilities. Beyond the Big Three: Exploring Other Bee Strains The episode briefly mentions a few other less common strains: Buckfast Bees: The Cool Climate Choice - Resistant to tracheal mites and well-suited for cooler climates. Russian Bees: The Mite-Resistant Option - Naturally resistant to varroa mites due to their long exposure in their native habitat. The USDA imported selected Russian queens to breed mite-resistant bees in the United States. The Queen's Role in Genetics: A Hive's Matriarch The hosts explain that a beehive's genetics are primarily determined by the queen. Introducing a new queen of a different strain can gradually shift the colony's characteristics over time. Queen Cages and Package Dynamics The episode elaborates on the practice of shipping bees in packages, highlighting that worker bees in a package are typically unrelated, collected from various hives, and have a diverse range of ages. A young, mated queen, unfamiliar to the workers, is placed in a separate cage within the package to allow the bees to acclimate to her scent. Swarm Dynamics: A Hive's Division and Relocation The hosts delve into the phenomenon of swarming, describing it as a natural process where a portion of a hive, including the queen, leaves to establish a new colony. Swarms are typically triggered by overcrowding within the hive. The hosts explain that swarming bees don't travel far and often cluster temporarily on a nearby tree branch while scout bees search for a suitable nesting site. They emphasize that swarms are vulnerable during this transition and face risks of starvation and predation. Looking Ahead: Unraveling More Bee Mysteries The episode concludes with a promise to address more complex beekeeping topics in future episodes, including colony collapse disorder, chemical use in beekeeping, and the role of drones in the hive. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

Through the previous two episodes, we outlined the realities of honeybees and the limitations of the ecosystems around us to support honeybees. With that in mind, if we choose to continue to live alongside European Honeybees, what should that look like? Decoding Bee Society: An Introduction to Honeybee Biology and Behavior This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac," titled "Episode 138 #3: Beekeeping 101 for Beginners," offers an introductory exploration into the captivating world of honeybees. Hosts Andy and Elliot engage in their signature blend of informative and humor-laden dialogue, covering the basics of honeybee biology, their social structure, and the intricate roles within the hive. Although framed as a beginner's guide to beekeeping, the episode provides valuable insights for anyone curious about the fascinating lives of these buzzing pollinators. Honeybees: More Than Just "Butt Stabby Sky Caterpillars" The episode kicks off with Andy's humorous, albeit inaccurate, description of honeybees as "butt stabby sky caterpillars". This lighthearted introduction sets the tone for the discussion, which quickly dives into a more scientifically accurate classification of these insects. Honeybees belong to the order Hymenoptera, which includes wasps, ants, and sawflies. Within this order, honeybees are further categorized under the genus Apis mellifera, encompassing a diverse array of over 7,500 species. The hosts emphasize that honeybees are considered "eusocial" insects, meaning they exhibit a high level of social organization and cooperation within their colonies. This intricate social structure involves a complex division of labor, cooperative brood care, and overlapping generations within the hive. The Circle of Life: The Eight Stages of a Honeybee's Existence The episode provides a detailed overview of a honeybee's life cycle, which unfolds in eight distinct stages, beginning with an egg. The hosts briefly touch upon the intriguing possibility of bee eggs as a culinary delicacy, albeit acknowledging the lack of widespread consumption. From Egg to Larva: The Role of Royal Jelly The hosts explain that upon hatching from the egg, the honeybee larva resembles a "tiny white glistening worm-like" creature. During the initial stages of development, all female larvae are fed royal jelly, a nutrient-rich substance secreted by nurse bees. The quantity and duration of royal jelly consumption determine the fate of the female bee. Those destined to become queens receive a continuous supply of royal jelly throughout their larval stage, spanning four and a half days. Worker larvae, on the other hand, transition to a diet of bee bread, also known as brood food, after just two days. Drones: The "Five-Headed" Members of the Hive Drone larvae, the males of the colony, follow a similar dietary pattern but extend their royal jelly intake for six days, which the hosts attribute to their "giant ass head". The hosts highlight the physical distinction of drones, noting their larger size and prominent eyes. The episode also reveals a fascinating detail about drone cell placement within the hive. Worker bees strategically position drone cells around the edges of the brood frames. This placement ensures that during periods of cold weather, the drones, deemed less essential for the hive's survival, are the first to perish. From Larva to Pupa: Metamorphosis Within a "Secret Cocoon" As the larvae mature, worker bees cap their cells, initiating the pupation stage. The hosts describe this transformation as occurring within a "secret cocoon" spun by the larva. Inside this cocoon, the larva undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis, developing the characteristic features of an adult bee: three distinct body parts, six legs, four wings, and compound eyes. Emerging from the Cocoon: Life as a Worker, Drone, or Queen The episode outlines the varying emergence times for each bee type: worker bees take 21 days, drones 24 days, and queens a mere 16 days. This discrepancy in development time, particularly the shorter duration for queens, is attributed to the richer diet they receive as larvae and their crucial role within the hive. Newly emerged queens engage in a fierce competition for dominance, seeking out rival queens and queen cells in an attempt to eliminate any contenders. This "Highlander" scenario ensures that only one queen reigns supreme within the hive. Drones: The "Lottery Winners" of the Hive Drones, upon emerging from their cells, enjoy a life of relative leisure. Worker bees cater to their needs, feeding them until they are self-sufficient. The hosts humorously characterize drones as "teddy bears with dicks that can fly," highlighting their lack of involvement in hive maintenance tasks. Worker Bees: The Backbone of the Hive Worker bees, comprising the majority of the hive population, shoulder the responsibility of all hive operations, excluding reproduction and mating. Their tasks range from building and maintaining the hive structure to foraging for food, caring for the queen, drones, and larvae. Despite their tireless efforts, worker bees typically have a lifespan of six weeks, although this extends to six months during the winter. The Queen: The Egg-Laying Monarch Queens, the largest bees within the hive, possess elongated abdomens for their primary function: egg-laying. Their lifespan typically ranges from a few years to a maximum of eight years. The queen's presence within the hive is marked by a pheromone that allows other bees to recognize her. The episode underscores that the queen's development into a reproductive female hinges on her consistent diet of royal jelly during her larval stage. The Mating Flight: A "Giant B Orgy in the Sky" The episode concludes with a description of the queen's mating flight, which the hosts humorously dub a "giant B orgy in the sky". Around a week after emerging from her cell, the queen embarks on a mating flight to a drone congregating area. There, she mates with multiple drones from other hives, ensuring genetic diversity within her colony. This mating frenzy typically lasts for two to four days. Upon returning to the hive, the queen begins laying eggs within 48 hours. If weather conditions or other circumstances prevent the queen from completing her mating flight within 20 to 30 days, she loses her ability to mate and can only lay unfertilized eggs, which develop into drones. The episode wraps up with a promise of more in-depth explorations of specific aspects of bee biology and behavior in future episodes. Listeners are left with a tantalizing glimpse into the intricate world of honeybees, sparking curiosity and appreciation for these essential pollinators. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

In this episode, we chat with researcher Torben Schiffer to discuss his findings working with wild honeybees in Europe. What can we learn from wild honeybees about the health of bees in conventional settings, and further, what do these discoveries imply about the sustainability of honeybees in urban settings?   You can buy Torben's books at the following link, or check your local bookstore! https://www.amazon.com/stores/Torben-Schiffer/author/B087QL9XB7?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true   To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list.  

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" challenges the common narrative that honeybees are primarily responsible for pollinator decline. While acknowledging the importance of honeybees, the hosts, Andy and Elliot, alongside guest host Matt, argue that focusing solely on honeybee conservation distracts from the more significant issue: the need to protect and restore native pollinator populations. They dissect various research papers and highlight the nuances surrounding invasive species, monocropping, and the complex interplay between native and non-native plants and pollinators. Challenging the Claim that Honeybees Promote Invasive Species The episode examines the often-repeated assertion that honeybees contribute to the spread of invasive plant species. The hosts trace this claim back to a series of papers, starting with a 2001 study titled "The Influence of Sociality on the Conservation Biology of Social Insects". This paper, however, only briefly mentions the concept and refers to a 1994 study for further investigation. Upon examining this 1994 study, "An Assessment of the Contribution of Honeybees to Weed Reproduction in New Zealand Protected Natural Areas", the hosts find that the abstract directly contradicts the commonly held belief. The study concludes that while honeybees may pollinate some invasive species, they likely do not significantly contribute to the overall problem. They further investigate another frequently cited paper, "Biotic Invasions: Causes, Epidemiology, Global Consequences, and Control", and discover that it doesn't even mention honeybees. This exploration reveals a pattern of misinterpretations and misattributions within the scientific literature, highlighting the importance of carefully examining primary sources rather than relying on secondhand summaries. The Impacts of Monocropping on Pollinator Diversity The hosts then shift their focus to monocropping, a prevalent agricultural practice that displaces native plants with vast swathes of single crops. They discuss a 2016 study that investigated how the scale of monocropping influences pollinator diversity. The research found that row crops, a common form of monoculture, negatively impact bee abundance within a 900-foot radius. Notably, even with unmanaged, "wild" areas bordering these monocrops, native pollinator diversity did not significantly improve. This finding suggests that the degradation of surrounding habitats may limit the effectiveness of small-scale native plant restoration efforts. Rethinking Native and Non-Native Plant Strategies The episode also challenges the simplistic notion that simply planting native species is a guaranteed solution for pollinator decline. They present findings from Oregon State University's Garden Ecology Lab, which compared the attractiveness of native and non-native plants to various pollinators. While native plants were initially more attractive, non-native plants became more popular with pollinators, especially honeybees, after a year of establishment within the ecosystem. This suggests that honeybees, as generalist foragers, gravitate towards less competitive resources. The hosts emphasize that while native plants are generally more beneficial for native pollinators, honeybees' tendency to exploit less competitive non-native plants might inadvertently reduce competition for native pollinators. They caution, however, that replacing all non-native plants with natives could lead to increased competition between honeybees and native pollinators for those native resources. The Need for a More Nuanced Perspective The episode concludes by urging listeners to move beyond simplistic solutions and embrace a more nuanced understanding of the complex factors contributing to pollinator decline. They stress that honeybees are not the sole culprit and that various interconnected issues, such as habitat loss, pesticide use, and the spread of diseases from managed honeybee populations to wild pollinators, require attention. The hosts advocate for a holistic approach that prioritizes habitat restoration, reduces reliance on monocropping, and encourages thoughtful integration of both native and non-native plants to support a diverse range of pollinators. Key Takeaways The claim that honeybees are the primary drivers of invasive species spread lacks strong scientific evidence. Monocropping negatively impacts pollinator diversity, and small-scale native plant restoration may be insufficient to fully mitigate this damage. While native plants are generally more beneficial, non-native plants can also support pollinators, and a balance between the two is necessary. Addressing pollinator decline requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond simply focusing on honeybees and includes habitat restoration, reduced pesticide use, and disease management. The episode encourages a shift in perspective, moving away from blame and towards collaborative action to support the intricate web of life that pollinators, both native and non-native, depend on. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

In this episode, we're chatting with Ilse Kohler-Rollefson to discuss the past and present state of pastoralism across Europe, Asia, and Africa.    After decades working with Pastoralists in india, Ilse discusses living around camels, the role modern agriculture has played in this age old practices, and much, much more. Ilsa Kohler-Rollefson am associated with two organisations:  The League for Pastoral Peoples and Endogenous Livestock Development (LPP) that she co-founded in 1992, and Lokhit Pashu-Palak Sansthan (LPPS), a local organisation in Rajasthan (India) and she is dividing her time between the two, but also advises international organisations, such as FAO, GIZ, UNDP, Worldbank, and others on matters related to livestock.  co-founded Camel Charisma, a social enterprise that develops and markets camel products and runs the Kumbhalgarh Camel Dairy at the foot of the Aravalli Hills.   To buy her book, visit: https://www.chelseagreen.com/product/hoofprints-on-the-land/  Find her on social media at: @KohlerRollefson     To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list.  

What if transforming a small strip of urban land could boost local ecology and foster a sense of community? Join us as we converse with Dr. Gray Copeland from Murdoch University, exploring her journey from marine ecology to urban rewilding using the innovative Miyawaki method. Learn about the meticulous preparation involved in selecting sites and species for these tiny urban forests and how Dr. Copeland's expertise in seagrasses and mangroves informs her current work in urban reforestation. Discover the crucial role of soil microbes in Miyawaki forests as we delve into fascinating differences in soil microbial profiles inside and outside these tiny urban ecosystems. Dr. Copeland sheds light on the importance of soil respiration rates and the innovative use of eDNA to assess biodiversity. We discuss how traditional and indigenous practices, like compost tea, can enhance soil health and forest maturity, while clarifying common misconceptions about growth rates versus maturity rates. Lastly, we explore the powerful impact these tiny forests can have on community engagement, particularly among children. Hear about the surprising social benefits, the importance of selecting native species, and the challenges of managing invasive species. Dr. Copeland shares inspiring stories of community involvement, from celebrating a forest's first birthday to combating invasives with mulch and weeding. Discover how these thriving ecosystems can transform urban landscapes and foster a sense of ownership and environmental stewardship within communities. Pocket Forests WA plants Miyawaki forests or 'pocket' forests as part of a dedicated science program run from the Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University. The research investigates the ecology and restoration potential of pocket forests in the Australian context. The program also engages citizen scientists through a dedicated science outreach program. The outreach program brings pocket forests into schools where the children plant their very own Miyawaki forest right in their school grounds. As part of the outreach program, the children monitor their pocket forests every month with ecologist and urban forest maker, Dr Grey Coupland, from Harry Butler Institute, becoming citizen scientists and hopefully inspiring the next generation of scientists and eco-warriors. You can learn more about their work on Instagram at @pocketforestsWA and as well as at: https://pocketforestswa.org/ For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key Words: Urban Biodiversity, Miyawaki Method, Urban Rewilding, Marine Ecology, Seagrasses, Mangroves, Tiny Forests, Biodiversity, Soil Microbes, Forest Health, Soil Microbial Profiles, eDNA, Community Engagement, Environmental Stewardship, Invasive Species, Empowerment, Children, Growth Rates, Maturity Rates, Citizen Science, Compost Tea, Indigenous Practices, Social Impact, Native Species, Conservation Groups, Invasive Species Management, Mulch, Weeding, Regenerative Agriculture, Instagram, Websites, Research Affiliations