This free lecture briefly introduces the history of how European Honey Bees came to America. Hesbach will also discuss how to identify a honey bee versus the many look-alike insects. The talk also includes a high level look at the more fascinating aspects of their biology. Bee habitat and the equipment used to keep honey bees is presented along with how interested individuals can take steps to participate.
No registration required for this event for adults.Bill Hesbach is a Connecticut native with a background in engineering. He’s an Eastern Apicultural Society Certified Master Beekeeper, a graduate of the University of Montana’s master beekeeping program, and the Connecticut Beekeepers Association president. Bill also operates a sideline bee business called Wing Dance Apiary in Cheshire, CT., that produces a crop of artisanal raw honey and other natural hive products. Bill teaches bee biology and various beekeeping methods at meetings hosted by regional beekeeping clubs. Bill is an active member of the Eastern Apicultural Society, where he is part of the Master Beekeeper Certification program. Bill is a regular guest speaker at national beekeeping seminars and was presented the Distinguished Speaker Award at the 2019 EAS conference. His special interests in beekeeping include bee biology and flight and the connection between local flora and bee behavior. He’s a published author, and his articles on beekeeping appear in Bee Culture, Bee Craft, and The American Bee Journal.