Key Data of Connected Beekeeping

In beekeeping, certain information can make all the difference between an optimal harvest and a difficult season. With the arrival of the connected hive, beekeepers now have access to precious data, continuously collected without opening the hive. Weight, temperature, humidity... these indicators allow monitoring the health of the colony, anticipating risks, and making the right decisions at the right time.

Hive Weight: The Reference Indicator

Tracking the weight is one of the first benefits provided. Thanks to a connected scale installed under the hive, one can detect in real-time:

• A nectar flow (rapid weight gain)
• Consumption of reserves (regular weight loss)
• Swarming or theft (sudden weight drop)

For example, a loss of more than 1.5 kg in one hour could signal a swarm. A gain of 4 to 5 kg in one day might indicate an active nectar flow that should not be missed.

Internal Temperature: The Heart of the Brood

Thanks to sensors placed inside the hive, one can monitor the internal temperature, an excellent indicator of the colony's vitality.

• A stable temperature between 33 and 36°C indicates normal activity.
• A sudden drop (below 30°C) might signal an absent queen.
• A temperature exceeding 38 to 40°C could be due to excessive sunlight.

Humidity: An Often Underestimated Factor

The humidity inside the hive directly affects the quality of the honey and the comfort of the colony.

• A humidity level higher than 75/80% can encourage mold growth.
• A humidity level too low (<40%) can make the environment too dry for the brood.

Data Analysis for Beekeeping Strategy

Data alone is not enough: its interpretation allows extracting all its value. A mobile app or web platform can be used to track trends and make informed decisions.

This analytical capability is now accessible to all, as explained in our article on connected beekeeping.

Conclusion

Monitoring your hives is no longer limited to opening them every 10 days. Thanks to real-time data collection, it becomes possible to better understand your colonies, intervene in a targeted way, and preserve both the health of the bees and the productivity of the harvest.

To learn more, check out our article on misconceptions that still hinder the adoption of these technologies.