How many sources of income do your beehives produce? If it's just honey sales and a few wax products, you will want to listen to this episode!
In this week's Bee-Love Beekeeping, we explore the magic of honeybee navigation and take a trip to Hawaii’s North Shore to meet beekeeper Katie Metzger, founder of Hanai Hives.
We kick off with a look at groundbreaking research on honeybee eyesight, revealing how these incredible insects read the polarized sky to travel miles and return home without losing their way—even on cloudy days. Then, we dive into Katie’s inspiring beekeeping journey, from her start in California school gardens to leading apiaries in Hawaii.
She shares how she built Hanai Hives, a community-driven beekeeping venture that blends education, agritourism, and honey production.
Together we discuss:
• Beekeeping in Hawaii’s unique microclimates
• The challenges and opportunities of turning beekeeping into a business
• Her hive adoption and hosting programs
• Agritourism experiences like bee farm tours and honey tastings
• Pest management strategies for varroa mites, small hive beetles, and ants
The Hawaiian concepts of Hanai (adoption/nurturing) and Kuleana (deep responsibility), and how they guide her approach to bees and community.
Katie also shares a really unusual wild beekeeping story, her philosophy on mentoring, and how love and responsibility—not just honey or money—drive her work. It's all about having fun while we learn about beekeeping and sharing the love of honey bees!
Video Version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woCzQlxypRU
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Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Mann Lake! https://www.mannlakeltd.com/ Mann
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