How do I make my hive less defensive?

A. Try these practices:

1. Place your hive in a low-traffic area, where people, pets, vehicles are not streaming past the entrance.  It is best if hives have about 10-20 feet in front of their entrance for an unobstructed flight path as they fly to and from the hive.
2. Always use a well-lit smoker and don’t work the hive just before or during a storm. 
3. Do not go into the hive more than once every 2 weeks unless necessary.  
4. Do not wear perfumes, aftershaves, or other fragrances when working bees. 
5. Do not keep the hive open for more than 15 minutes in most circumstances. 
6. Always wear protective gear and light-colored clothes when working bees.

If you notice the bees are darting you more and more, try to complete your task, smoke often and close the hive.