Skep

A skep is a simple, often dome-shaped, beehive constructed from woven materials, traditionally straw or wicker. It provided a contained space for a bee colony to build its comb and store honey. Skeps represent a traditional and historical method of beekeeping, predating the modern hive designs. Their simplicity also meant skeps were usually destroyed to harvest the honey, killing the bees in the process. The practice of using skeps is generally considered outdated, but it offers insights into historical agricultural practices.

Skep meaning with examples

• The beekeeper carefully placed the swarm inside the newly crafted skep, hoping the bees would find it a suitable home. He used a skep crafted from straw and wattle to protect his bees and their honey stores from the harsh winter. Harvesting honey from the skep each season was a delicate task, often resulting in the unfortunate demise of the colony, requiring rebuilding. The museum displayed an ancient skep crafted from reeds, showcasing a glimpse into older beekeeping methods.
• In the olden days, before modern hives, the skep was a common sight in rural gardens, indicating a family who kept bees. The artisan skillfully wove the straw, forming a perfect skep shape for her project. The apiary held only a few skeps; it looked so quaint among the more sophisticated hive boxes. Using a skep was seen as a way of life, an inherent part of the farm.
• She held her breath as the smoke gently coaxed the bees from the skep, just before she harvested the honey. The farmer traditionally maintained a small number of skeps for pollination and honey production. While simple in design, the skep was a functional enclosure designed to protect against the elements and predation. She read in the farming manual how to maintain a skep and harvest.
• The documentary showed footage of traditional beekeepers using skeps, showcasing their craftmanship. After the harvest, most of the bees were killed, and only a few would remain. The garden displayed a collection of historical beekeeping tools, including several skeps. The smell of honey hung heavy in the air around the skep.