The worker bee dies within a few hours of stinging. The queen bee has a smooth curved sting which she uses only to kill other queens. She is able to withdraw the sting after use and therefore does not die after using it. Drones do not possess a sting. A lot of people keep bees because they produce honey, one of the healthiest and most natural foods which has been valued by man since prehistory, as a sweetener.
Many people also keep bees because they are interested in the study of bees and of their habits.
Bees are fascinating creatures and there is always something new to learn about them. Beekeeping is an enjoyable open air hobby bringing you in contact with people from all walks of life. Bees can be kept by almost everyone except a small minority who are allergic to bee stings. Bees are kept not only in the countryside but also in back yards, gardens and even on flat roof buildings in the centre of large towns and cities. Ireland has a long tradition of beekeeping.