Beekeeping in the City: The Unseen Labor of Chicago's Urban Beekeepers

Bike-a-Bee was founded by Jana Kinsman, who started her business by hauling equipment around Chicago by bicycle and trailer.

Kinsman began beekeeping without prior experience, relying on online tutorials and trial-and-error to learn the craft.

Bike-a-Bee is a thriving operation focused on sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Bees are incredibly social creatures, with a complex communication system that involves dance and pheromones.

The queen bee lays eggs and is responsible for the colony's growth and development.

Beekeepers must manage the colony's population to ensure the health and well-being of the bees.

Urban beekeeping offers a unique flavor profile for honey, with neighborhoods like Englewood providing a diverse range of wildflowers.

Bees play a crucial role in pollination, with many plants relying on them to reproduce.

Bike-a-Bee offers apprenticeships to teach others the craft, making it easier for young people to get involved.

Chicago is a supportive city for beekeepers, with initiatives like hives on top of City Hall, making it easier for others to start their own beekeeping businesses.