Beekeeper's Handbook

The current (fourth) edition of the definitive text by Diana Sammataro and Alphonse Avitable is newly updated with lots of information about Colony Collapse Disorder, Varroa mites, African honey bees, and green Integrated Pest Management.  We agree this is the best single-volume guide to the hobby and profession of beekeeping.  Featuring clear descriptions and authoritative content, this handbook provides step-by-step directions accompanied by illustrations for setting up an apiary, handling bees, and working throughout the season to maintain a healthy colony of bees and a generous supply of honey.  This book explains the various colony care options and techniques, noting advantages and disadvantages, so that beekeepers can make the best choices for their own hives.