Bee Fact – Number 1

Without the Rev Charles Butler, the phrase ‘King Bee’ could well have been enshrined in the English language. But it isn’t, because the Rev Butler was enthralled by bees and spent hours studying them, leading to the finding that hives are predominantly female and dominated by a Queen Bee. His research was published in 1623 in ground-breaking book The Feminine Monarchie and the Rev Butler became known as the ‘Father of English beekeeping’. 

The 400 year anniversary of the book’s publication was recently celebrated with a Bee Fayre in the Hampshire parish church where the Rev Butler was vicar. 

For more information about the Bee Fayre, Wallbarn’s connection to it and how you can support the UK bee population click here.