Page 64 - The Miracle of the Honeybee
P. 64

THE MIRACLE OF THE HONEYBEE
              62


                            THE QUEEN BEE WHO ENSURES

                            THE CONTINUITY OF THE HIVE
                          A brief look at the beehive reveals that the workers take par-
               ticular care of one bee, far larger than themselves. The other bees supply
              all these bee’s needs, such as feeding, cleaning and security. Although any
              hive contains tens of thousands of bees, there is only one queen, whose
              longevity is of vital importance to the entire hive. She ensures the continu-
              ity of the colony. In addition, discipline in the colony is ensured by sub-
              stances she releases.
                 Throughout her life, the queen does nothing but lay eggs. She is always
              inside the hive, never leaves it, and lays eggs every day from early spring
              through late summer. The workers undertake all aspects of her care. As
              the queen moves around in the hive, a group of workers gather around
              her, feeding her constantly, stroking her with their antennae and licking











            The queen bee is of the
             utmost importance to
              the hive, keeping the
                colony alive. The
             worker bees therefore
               meet all her needs.
            This photograph shows
             workers taking a close
            interest in all aspects of
              the queen’s welfare,
             feeding her with great
             care and ensuring her
              safety. It is God Who
              provides the workers
              with this dedication.
            The bees behave under
                  His inspiration.
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