Bees have a natural instinct to hide when they smell/sense smoke because they think it is a forest fire and that is why beekeepers use smoke.
When a beehive is exposed to smoke, bees enter self-preservation mode and try to hide away from the fire, as they perceive the smoke as a sign of a forest fire.
Smoke is essential in beekeeping as it is the primary protection, besides a beekeeper suit.
If you have regular checkups and maintain nonaggressive bees, you won’t need to use smoke during inspections.
Smokers for beekeeping
Most people use smokers and smokers are metal containers with an air pump on the side to pump smoke.
How does a smoker work?
You open the lid of a smoker and put inside some burning material mostly it is a piece of fabric or some compacted pellets made for smokers so it burns longer.
After adding fuel to a smoker, it needs to be lit.
However, the flame must be extinguished to produce smoke instead of flames.
With an air pump located on the side of the smoker, air is pumped inside and smoke exits through the top hole, allowing you to conveniently direct the smoke.
Smoke strips
Smoke strips are the best way to use smoke because they are small, easy to use, and can be handled with or without gloves.
The strips come with a wire handle/stand.
The best part is that you can just take a small piece by ripping it or cutting it.
In case you have calm bees and want to move them from the frames, you can light a small piece and let it burn for a few seconds.