stingless bee harvest honey

Описание: Stingless bee harvest refers to the process of collecting honey, pollen, and propolis from stingless bees (such as Tetragonula or Heterotrigona species like Itama). These bees are popular in tropical regions like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia for their unique honey and ease of handling (since they don’t sting).

Here’s a simple overview of the stingless bee honey harvest process:

🐝 1. Choose the Right Time

Harvest during dry weather when nectar flow is good.

Avoid rainy seasons — honey moisture will be too high.

Typically harvest every 3–4 months, depending on nectar availability.

🍯 2. Check the Honey Pots

Open the top section (super or top box) of the hive carefully.

Identify honey pots — they’re oval and shiny, filled with golden or dark honey.

Avoid disturbing the brood area (larvae and pupae) below.

🔪 3. Harvesting the Honey

There are two main methods:

a. Suction Method (Clean and Safe)

Use a manual or electric honey suction pump (small vacuum).

Insert a sterile tube into each honey pot to extract the honey directly.

This minimizes contamination and damage to the pots.

b. Cutting Method (Traditional)

Cut open honey pots carefully using a clean knife.

Drain honey through a fine filter or cloth to remove wax and debris.

🧴 4. Filtering and Storing

Filter honey through fine mesh or filter cloth.

Let it settle for a few days to separate air bubbles and impurities.

Store in glass bottles or food-grade containers away from sunlight.

📦 5. Handling Pollen and Propolis (Optional)

Pollen pots can also be harvested — rich in protein and enzymes.

Propolis (resin) can be scraped from hive edges for medicinal uses.

⚠️ Tips:

Always wear gloves and work calmly to avoid stressing the colony.

Leave some honey for the bees — they need it for food and humidity control.

Clean tools before and after harvesting to maintain hygiene.