In this video, I join Heather, a first-year beekeeper, to walk through her two hives during an August inspection. Together we take a close look at a strong, thriving colony and a weaker hive that needs some extra attention. Along the way, I share practical tips for beginners—how to read brood patterns, spot honey stores, deal with hive beetles, use queen excluders, and rearrange frames for better colony growth.
Beekeeping is never one-size-fits-all, and this video shows the real challenges and learning moments of a first season. If you’re new to beekeeping—or just curious about what goes on inside a hive—this inspection is a hands-on look at how to support your bees and prepare them for the months ahead.