We’ve been having an exceptionally hot summer here in Japan.
We usually wrap up our work by around 9 a.m., head home, and jump straight into the shower (Shower No. 1!) before breakfast. In Japanese, we call this asameshimae—literally, “before breakfast.” In other words, we try to get everything done before the day really heats up!
But this time of year is a tough challenge not only for us humans, but for honey bees as well. At BeeCamp, we’re constantly looking for ways to help our bees stay as comfortable as possible.
🌊 We set up a small water station near the hives—a little “cool spot” just for the bees.
🌿 We provide shade over the hives to protect them from direct sunlight.
🌬 We keep the ventilation openings clear so that hot air doesn’t build up inside the hive.
As flowers become scarcer during this season, the inside of the hive can also become increasingly hot and stuffy, and the queen’s rate of egg-laying begins to slow down.
When that happens, some of the forager bees switch jobs. Instead of bringing back nectar, they collect water and carry it into the hive. Working together, the bees fan their wings to help the water evaporate, cooling the hive in the process.
It’s basically a “natural air conditioner”—the honey bee version of uchimizu, the traditional Japanese practice of sprinkling water to cool the air!
You may also see bees pouring out of the hive and hanging outside in a long row, sometimes looking like a “beard”growing from the entrance. This is another way the colony reduces crowding inside the hive and helps prevent the temperature from rising too much.
A true summertime tradition at BeeCamp! 🐝🌿