Frequently Asked Questions
What is a CDB hive?
CDB hives are hives that are designed specifically to withstand the wind and rain that’s associated with the weather of Ireland.
The A-shaped roof has a ridge piece on top of a 30-degree slope to help make sure it stays in place through heavy rain and wind.
What equipment do I need to start beekeeping?
- Rubber boots
- Gloves
- Hive tools
- Beekeeper jacket or suit
- Smoker
- Bee brush
Is it okay to do beekeeping as a hobby?
Of course, keeping bees is quite a rewarding hobby! Honeybees are an interesting species to keep and tending to them is often a very calming experience. Plus, at the end of it, you get some delicious honey.
Is beekeeping expensive?
Getting started in the beekeeping world can be quite expensive for a hobby. You’re looking at around €150 - €200 for the beehive alone and you also have to buy the bees and the tools to help you tend to them - but it is an incredibly rewarding hobby.
Is beekeeping dangerous?
Beekeeping does have a few risks besides being stung, and they include:
- Hurting your back lifting heavy objects
- Anaphylactic shock - which only occurs if you’re allergic to bees
How much time does beekeeping take up?
It usually takes somewhere between 15 - 30 hours a year to tend to one colony of bees. Of course, if it’s your first year it’ll take longer as you’ll have to prepare the equipment first. The more hives you have, the more time it will take.
How much money can I make with beekeeping?
This all depends on how many hives you have but you can roughly make €150 - €200 per beehive.
How long does a beehive last for?
The queen bee can lay up to 2000 eggs a day. This means that worker bees (and even the queen herself) can be replaced easily. As long as the bees are looked after and have a place to store their honey, they’ll be able to live in your hive indefinitely.