Beekeeping can be a fascinating hobby, a profitable sideline, or a full-time occupation. You may want to keep bees for the delicious fresh honey they produce, for the benefits of their valuable services as pollinators, or perhaps simply for the enjoyment of learning more about one of nature’s most interesting insects. Almost anyone can keep bees. Honey bees normally only sting to defend themselves or their colony; when colonies are handled properly and precautions are taken, stinging is not a major problem. Most beekeepers develop a tolerance for bee venom over time and have reduced sensitivity to pain and swelling. However, the few people who react strongly to bee stings and pollen or who are unable to get over fears of stings should avoid contact with bees.