Which of the following behaviors should be avoided by beekeepers?

Avoiding the use of scents or perfumes is crucial for beekeepers because bees have a highly developed sense of smell. Strong scents can disturb the bees and may make them aggressive as they cannot distinguish the smell of the beekeeper from potential threats or intruders. This can lead to defensive behavior from the bees, making it difficult for the beekeeper to work safely around the hive.

While bright clothing can potentially attract bees, and bringing food near the hive can create unwanted distractions or attract other pests, the impact of scents and perfumes is more direct and significant on the bees’ behavior. Strong insect repellents also risk irritating bees and leading to aggression or defensive behaviors, but avoiding scents is a more broadly recommended practice when managing bee interactions. Therefore, refraining from using scents and perfumes is an essential behavior for maintaining peace and safety in beekeeping.