The bees were, and still are, treated as pets. Families would have one or many log-hives hanging in and around their houses. Although they are stingless, the bees do bite and can leave welts similar to a mosquito bite. The traditional way to gather bees, still favored among the locals, is find a wild hive, then the branch is cut around the hive to create a portable log, enclosing the colony.

The ends were sealed with mud except for a small opening in either end. This clever method keeps the bees from mixing their brood, pollen, and honey in the same comb as do the European bees. The bees adapted well to their protected homes and a “guard” bee would position himself at the entrance to the hive inside. In case of attack, the intruders stood less of a chance to get at the hive. [x]

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