The fact is bees have stingers and sting. You're going to get stung. You will get stung. Grit your teeth , stand your ground, and take it. Suit up if you will, sometimes you WILL need to wear a vented jacket. This time of year a veil is all you need but not necessary. Most of the time, I use one for eye protection. In places where Africanized bees are located you may need a complete vented suit. You ARE going to get stung. If you can not take it you may need to find another hobby. I hope you hang in there. Putting it bluntly, no offence intended. Wishing you the very best.
Phillip Hall
Hey Philip,
No offense taken, and I appreciate your comment. I also completely understand that bees sting and to keep bees to to accept stings. I'm ok with that, and most of the time can understand WHY stings happen. Like I said, I'm not trying to look for a completely stingless operation, nor do I have any desire to get out of beekeeping. This is my third year and I find great enjoyment running my honey harem.
I was looking more for advice on the mental preparation for handling the 'in the moment' reaction. As it has been noted, the flight reaction is normal but I know that we can mentally work against our instinctive nature to our benefit. Military folk could chime in on that, I'm sure.
Cheers!
