subject: Wear Your Beekeeping Suit at all Times [print this page] The beekeeping suit is full-length attire and must be worn at all times within the beehive. It's light in color, typically white, and is constructed of smooth and glossy fabrics. The suit being smooth and also light in color helps "mask" the beekeeper from the colony, as its natural enemies (such as bears and skunks) normally have dark coats of fur. The beekeeping suit also provides the beekeeper a convenient method of removing stings and venom by simply tugging on the cloth. If stings remain in the fabric of the suit, they still emit the "alarm" pheromone that triggers angry behavior and more attacks by the colony. To minimize the risk of the bees latching onto the scent the next time the beekeeper enters the hive, regular washing of the suit is highly recommended. Also rinse the hands with vinegar. This will result in even less attention from the bees.
