The essential primer on the role of honeybees in British history,
covering biology, folklore, the history of beekeeping and the danger
to bees posed by climate change.
One in every four bites of food we eat is thanks to bees. They pollinate
80 per cent of the world's crops and plants, but how much do we really
know about them? Small, clever, and mysterious, the honeybee has long
been celebrated in human culture as a sacred insect, a symbol of the
sun, bridging the gap between our world and the next. They are expert
communicators, skilled aviators, and natural alchemists, turning fresh
nectar into sweet, golden honey. They are also in trouble and need our
help. This guide explores their historic relationship with humans, the
basics of beekeeping, and how we can help save our honeybee populations.