Minecraft wiki entry for Honey_farming, associated text: If you don't have a tool with Silk Touch or don't want to remove the bee nest from its natural location, another option is to stay with the bees as they work until they have filled their nest with honey. Then, place a campfire at least two blocks directly below the hive, and put carpet on top of the campfire ‌[Java Edition only]. The campfire keeps the bees from getting angry with you, and the carpet keeps you from cooking the bees alive.