How to Safely Harvest Honey and Honeycomb Without Angering the Hive

Prepare before you touch the hive

With hives holding far more bees than vanilla, a provoked swarm is much larger. Before harvesting, place a campfire directly under the hive (with a gap of air, as in vanilla) so the smoke calms the bees. Have shears ready for honeycomb and glass bottles for honey. Wear at least some armor in case something goes wrong.

Harvesting steps

1. Approach the hive from the side, not directly in front of the entrance, so you do not bump into returning bees.

2. Confirm the hive is full — honey drips from the front when it is ready.

3. Use shears for honeycomb or bottles for honey. Do not hit the hive with a sword or axe, as that can aggro the occupants.

4. If bees start pouring out and turn red-eyed, back away immediately rather than fighting. The smoke from the campfire should keep them docile if it is placed correctly.

Handling a large hive

Because a single hive can house many bees, harvesting during the day when foragers are out reduces the number inside. Alternatively, harvest at night when all bees are home but calm under smoke. Never break a hive with bees inside unless you are prepared for the entire population to spill out and potentially defend it.