A queen excluder is a mesh barrier placed between the brood chamber

Starting your beekeeping journey in Missouri is an exciting endeavor! Missouri is a great place for beekeeping, with its diverse flora providing ample forage for bees. To get started, you'll need some essential beekeeping supplies. Here's a list of items you might consider:

1. **Beehive**: You'll need a beehive to house your bees. A complete hive consists of boxes (supers) for honey storage and brood chambers for the queen to lay eggs.

2. **Frames and Foundation**: Frames fit inside the hive boxes and provide support for the bees to build their comb. Foundation sheets can help guide the bees in building straight combs.

3. **Smoker**: A bee smoker is used to calm the bees during beekeeping supplies Missouri inspections by puffing smoke into the hive, which masks alarm pheromones.

4. **Bee Suit**: A protective bee suit or jacket with a veil is essential to protect yourself from bee stings.

5. **Gloves**: Beekeeping gloves protect your hands from stings while working with the hive.

6. **Hive Tool**: A hive tool is used to pry apart hive components, scrape off excess wax and propolis, and perform other hive maintenance tasks.

7. **Bee Brush**: A soft-bristled brush is used to gently move bees off frames and other hive components.

8. **Feeder**: A feeder can be used to provide supplemental food to the bees, especially during times of scarcity.

9. **Queen Excluder**: A queen excluder is a mesh barrier placed between the brood chamber and honey supers to prevent the queen from laying eggs in the honey storage area.

10. **Protective Clothing**: Apart from a bee suit, consider wearing light-colored, smooth-textured clothing when working with bees. Avoid wearing strong scents or perfumes.

11. **First Aid Kit**: Keep a first aid kit handy for treating minor bee stings.

12. **Beekeeping Books or Guides**: Educate yourself about beekeeping through books, online resources, or local beekeeping associations.

13. **Beekeeping Association Membership**: Joining a local beekeeping association can provide valuable support, resources, and knowledge sharing with other beekeepers in your area.

Before purchasing beekeeping supplies, it's a good idea to check local regulations and guidelines for beekeeping in Missouri, as they may vary by location. Additionally, consider taking a beekeeping course or finding a mentor to help you get started on the right foot.