How to Buy Honey Bees: A Guide to Starting Your Beekeeping Journey

Beekeeping is an ancient practice that has gained modern popularity due to its environmental benefits and the sweet rewards of honey production. If you’re considering how to buy honey bees, you’re taking the first step toward a fascinating and rewarding hobby or business. This guide will walk you through the process, offering insights and tips to ensure your beekeeping venture is successful.
Understanding the Basics of Beekeeping
Before diving into the purchase of honey bees, it’s crucial to understand the basics of beekeeping. Beekeeping involves managing colonies of bees in hives to collect honey and other products like beeswax, propolis, and royal jelly. It also plays a vital role in pollination, which is essential for the health of many ecosystems and agricultural crops.
Types of Honey Bees
There are several species of honey bees, but the most commonly kept by beekeepers is the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera). Within this species, there are various subspecies and strains, each with unique characteristics. Some popular strains include:
- Italian Bees (Apis mellifera ligustica): Known for their gentle nature and high honey production.
- Carniolan Bees (Apis mellifera carnica): Valued for their ability to adapt to colder climates and their rapid spring buildup.
- Russian Bees: Known for their resistance to certain pests and diseases.
- Buckfast Bees: A hybrid strain developed for disease resistance and productivity.
Understanding the differences between these strains can help you choose the right bees for your climate, goals, and experience level.
Where to Buy Honey Bees
Once you’ve decided on the type of bees you want, the next step is to find a reputable source. Here are some common options:
Local Beekeeping Associations
Joining a local beekeeping association is one of the best ways to connect with experienced beekeepers who can guide you in purchasing bees. These associations often have members who sell bees or can recommend reliable suppliers. Additionally, they offer valuable resources, workshops, and mentorship opportunities.
Beekeeping Supply Companies
Many companies specialize in selling beekeeping equipment and live bees. These companies often offer packages of bees, which typically include a queen bee and a certain number of worker bees. Some well-known suppliers include:
- Mann Lake Ltd.
- Dadant & Sons
- Betterbee
When purchasing from these companies, ensure they have a good reputation and provide healthy, disease-free bees.
Local Beekeepers
Purchasing bees from local beekeepers can be advantageous because the bees are already adapted to your area’s climate and conditions. Local beekeepers may sell nucleus colonies (nucs), which are small, established colonies with a queen, workers, and brood. This can be a great way to start with a more robust colony.
Online Marketplaces
Online platforms like Craigslist or beekeeping forums can also be sources for purchasing bees. However, exercise caution and verify the seller’s credibility to avoid scams or unhealthy bees.
What to Look for When Buying Bees
When purchasing bees, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get a healthy and productive colony:
Health of the Bees
Inspect the bees for signs of disease or pests. Healthy bees should be active, with a good number of workers and a visible queen. Avoid colonies that show signs of weakness, such as a lack of brood or excessive dead bees.
Quality of the Queen
The queen is the heart of the colony, so her health and genetics are crucial. A good queen should be well-mated, laying a consistent pattern of eggs, and free from deformities. Some suppliers offer marked queens, which can be easier to identify in the hive.
Package vs. Nuc
You can buy bees in two main forms: packages and nucs. A package typically contains a queen and a few pounds of worker bees, while a nuc is a small, established colony with frames of brood, honey, and pollen. Nucs are generally more expensive but offer a head start in establishing your hive.
Timing
The best time to buy bees is in the spring when the colony is naturally expanding. This gives the bees time to build up their numbers and store honey before winter. Avoid buying bees too late in the season, as they may not have enough time to prepare for colder months.
Preparing for Your Bees
Before your bees arrive, you’ll need to set up your hive and gather necessary equipment. Here’s a basic list of what you’ll need:
- Hive Components: This includes the bottom board, hive bodies (brood boxes), frames, and a cover.
- Protective Gear: A bee suit, gloves, and a veil are essential for protecting yourself from stings.
- Tools: A hive tool, smoker, and bee brush are basic tools for managing your hive.
- Feeder: A feeder can help supplement the bees’ food supply, especially when starting a new colony.
Ensure your hive is set up in a suitable location with access to water, sunlight, and forage. The hive should be placed on a level surface, facing south or southeast for optimal sun exposure.
Introducing Bees to the Hive
When your bees arrive, it’s time to introduce them to their new home. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the Hive: Ensure all hive components are assembled and ready. Place the frames inside the hive bodies.
- Install the Bees: If you have a package of bees, gently shake the bees into the hive. If you have a nuc, transfer the frames into your hive.
- Release the Queen: The queen is usually in a separate cage. Place her cage between two frames, ensuring the workers can access her through the candy plug. The workers will gradually release her over a few days.
- Feed the Bees: Provide sugar syrup in a feeder to help the bees establish themselves.
- Monitor the Hive: Check the hive regularly to ensure the queen is released and the colony is building comb and storing food.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Beekeeping comes with its share of challenges, but with proper knowledge and preparation, you can overcome them:
Pests and Diseases
Varroa mites, American foulbrood, and nosema are common threats to bee colonies. Regular inspections and treatments can help manage these issues. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, such as using screened bottom boards and organic acids, can be effective.
Swarming
Swarming is a natural process where a colony splits, and a portion of the bees leave with the old queen to form a new colony. To prevent swarming, ensure your hive has enough space, and consider techniques like splitting the hive or adding supers.
Weather Conditions
Extreme weather can impact your bees’ health and productivity. Provide adequate shelter, ventilation, and insulation to protect your hive from harsh conditions.
FAQs
Q: How much does it cost to buy honey bees? A: The cost of honey bees varies depending on the type and source. A package of bees typically costs between $100 and $150, while a nuc can range from $150 to $200.
Q: How many bees should I start with? A: For beginners, starting with one or two colonies is recommended. This allows you to gain experience without being overwhelmed.
Q: Can I keep bees in an urban area? A: Yes, urban beekeeping is possible and increasingly popular. Check local regulations and ensure your bees have access to forage and water.
Q: How often should I inspect my hive? A: Regular inspections are essential, especially during the active season. Inspect your hive every 7-10 days to monitor the colony’s health and progress.
Q: What should I do if my bees become aggressive? A: Aggressive behavior can be a sign of stress or disease. Ensure your hive is healthy and consider requeening with a gentler strain if necessary.
By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to successfully purchasing and managing your own honey bee colony. Beekeeping is a rewarding endeavor that not only provides you with delicious honey but also contributes to the health of our environment. Happy beekeeping!